HS Code for Live Plants and Seedlings
The HS Code for live plants and seedlings is 060290. The MFN duty rate for importing to the US is 1.8%.
| HS Code (6-digit) | 060290 |
|---|---|
| US Duty Rate (MFN) | 1.8% |
| EU Duty Rate (MFN) | 8.3% |
| Chapter | 6 |
| Heading | 0602 |
| Last Updated | 2026-05 |
Description
Other live plants, cuttings and slips
HS Code 060290 covers other live plants, cuttings, and slips with a US MFN duty rate of 1.8%.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the specific customs inspection risks for importing live plants under HTS 060290, and how can they be mitigated?
Shipments of live plants under HTS 060290 face high inspection rates for compliance with the USDA's phytosanitary certificate requirement and for prohibited soil or pests on cuttings. To mitigate risk, ensure every shipment has an original, valid phytosanitary certificate from the country of origin and use sterile growing media. Proper labeling with botanical names on commercial invoices also helps expedite clearance.
What are the typical additional costs beyond the product price when importing HTS 060290 live plants and seedlings?
Importers should budget for mandatory USDA APHIS phytosanitary inspection fees, which can range from $50 to over $200 per shipment depending on size and complexity. You will also often incur costs for a USDA import permit, applicable customs duties, and specialized temperature-controlled air freight handling, which is standard for live plant material.
Phytosanitary & CITES Compliance for Live Plants
All imports under 060290 require a phytosanitary certificate from the country of origin, verifying plants are free of soil and quarantine pests. Shipments are subject to inspection by USDA APHIS upon entry. If plants are protected species (e.g., many orchids, cacti, or cycads), they may also require CITES permits. Always verify the specific species against the CITES Appendices, as violations carry severe penalties. Proper botanical names on documentation are critical for both phytosanitary and CITES clearance.
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