Preface: When Flower Trade MeetsClassification of Customs

Zhu Xi's poem "Spring Day" states: "Casually recognizing the east wind's face, a riot of color always heralds spring." With the improvement of living standards, flowers and greenery have become essential elements for modern people to adorn their lives. As a foreign trade expert with 20 years of experience, I have witnessed the floral...Import and Export TradeThe vigorous development also makes us deeply aware of the complexity of classification issues. Today, let me, as a "gardener," guide everyone through this "planting manual" for flower imports and exports.

Chapter 1: Seeds - The Big Details in Small Seeds

Flower seeds may seem simple, but their customs classification hides complexities. Based on cases I've handled, 90% of classification errors stem from misunderstandings about their "intended planting use."

• Herbaceous flower seeds fall under 1209.3000, clover seeds under 1209.2200, and forest tree seeds under 1209.9900Special Cases:
• One client mistakenly declared sunflower seeds as 1209.3000 when they should have been classified under heading 12.06, causing customs clearance delaysAlways specify for cultivation in declarations, as non-cultivation purposes may alter classification
• Professional Advice:When declaring, it is essential to specify "for planting purposes," as non-planting uses may alter the classification.

Chapter 2: Roots and Stems - Identification Below Ground

Key Classification Points:

• Significant tariff differences exist between dormant and growing states, e.g., orchid tubers: dormant under 06011091.10, growing under 06012000.10Common Misunderstandings:
• Chicory roots require usage distinction: non-edible under 0601.2000, edible under 1212.9999Practical Tips:
• Recommend specifying product state in contracts to avoid post-arrival disputesIn my experience, live plant classification sparks the most disputes, especially with ornamental fruit seedlings.

Chapter 3: Live Plants - Commodities That Breathe

Classification Rules:

• Named flowers like azaleas and roses have dedicated codes, others fall under 060290 seriesTypical Cases:
• A company importing potted oranges should classify under 06029099.99 instead of 060220Endangered species require additional CITES certificates, such as certain orchid varieties
• Specifically reminded:Succulent imports have surged recently, but classification error rates reach 40%, primarily due to variety identification issues.

Chapter 4: Succulents - A Clearance Guide for Adorable Plants

Clear Classification:

• Clear classification:Cacti are classified under 06029099.20, while other succulents fall under 06029099.99
• Special treatment:Aloe requires differentiation between propagation use (06029094.90) and non-propagation use (06029094.10)
• Experience sharing:It is recommended to include Latin scientific names to avoid classification disputes due to common name variations

Chapter 5: Cut Flowers - Eternalizing Fleeting Beauty

Fresh cut flowers are time-sensitive - rapid and accurate classification directly affects shelf life. Here are three key points:

• Core classification:Roses, carnations and others have dedicated codes, while others fall under 0603.1900
• Extended products:Products like bouquets and flower baskets still fall under heading 06.03
• Accessory materials handling:Fresh cut foliage like eucalyptus leaves belongs to 0604.2090 and should be declared separately from main flowers

Conclusion: Ensuring Smooth Sailing for Flower Trade

Flower classification is like gardening - it requires patience and expertise. Remember these key points to make your import/export journey as smooth as spring. When in doubt, consult professional customs brokers - after all, letting professionals handle professional matters is the surest path to trade success. May your floral trade business bloom like spring flowers!