Not sure about the classification?
08
Tariff Chapter 08
Fruit, dried, other than that of headings 0801 to 0806; mixtures of nuts or dried fruits of this chapter
What does heading 0813 of the customs tariff cover?
Heading 0813 covers dried fruits and mixtures of nuts or dried fruits, fresh or dried. These products are imported into the EU from many third countries and constitute a significant part of international fruit trade. Import of these products into the EU is subject to the aflatoxin and mycotoxin controls and duty rates from 0% to 12.8%. A phytosanitary certificate is required. Products must meet EU standards for maximum pesticide residue levels, food safety and marketing standards. Phytosanitary controls at the EU border are mandatory. Heading 0813 is part of Chapter 8 (vegetable products and foodstuffs) of the Combined Nomenclature (CN) used in the European Union. This classification is based on the Harmonized System (HS) developed by the World Customs Organization (WCO), which is used in over 200 countries worldwide. The EU Combined Nomenclature extends the HS with additional 8-digit subheadings, while the TARIC system adds 10-digit codes for identifying specific trade measures. Each 4-digit heading such as 0813 is subdivided into 6-digit (HS), 8-digit (CN) and 10-digit (TARIC) subheadings that specify the type of goods for the purpose of applying the correct duty rates, trade measures and regulatory requirements. Correct determination of the 10-digit code is essential for establishing the amount of customs duties and taxes, as well as required permits and certificates. Classification of goods under heading 0813 must follow the General Rules for the Interpretation (GRI) of the Combined Nomenclature. Rule 1 states that classification is determined primarily by the terms of the headings and the relevant section or chapter notes. The Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System and the Combined Nomenclature clarify the scope of each heading and are essential references for importers and customs brokers.
Duty rates and import requirements for heading 0813
These products are imported into the EU from many third countries and constitute a significant part of international fruit trade. Import of these products into the EU is subject to the aflatoxin and mycotoxin controls and duty rates from 0% to 12.8%. A phytosanitary certificate is required. Phytosanitary controls at the EU border are mandatory. A phytosanitary certificate confirming freedom from quarantine organisms is required. Products must meet EU standards for maximum pesticide residue levels (MRLs). Check whether tariff preferences or tariff rate quotas apply for the exporting country. Labelling must comply with EU marketing standards, including country of origin and quality class. When importing goods under heading 0813 into the European Union, attention must be paid to applicable duty rates, which depend on the specific subheading (8- or 10-digit code) and the country of origin. MFN (Most Favoured Nation) duty rates apply to imports from countries with which the EU does not have preferential trade agreements. Current rates can be checked in the EU TARIC database on the European Commission website. Import of goods under heading 0813 may benefit from preferential duty rates under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) concluded by the EU with third countries, the Generalised Scheme of Preferences (GSP) for developing countries, or autonomous tariff suspensions. Claiming preferences requires presentation of appropriate proof of origin (EUR.1 certificate, origin declaration, REX certificate or statement on origin under the registered exporter system).
Classification of goods under heading 0813 — key considerations
Heading 0813 covers dried fruit other than that of headings 0801-0806, and mixtures of nuts or dried fruits. Includes dried apricots, prunes, apples, cranberries, figs and trail mixes. Subheadings separate apricots, prunes, apples, other dried fruit and mixtures. Common mistake: raisins go to 0806. Dried coconut goes to 0801. Dried dates go to 0804. Fried fruit chips go to 2008.
Frequently asked questions
What are the EU duty rates for importing dried fruits and nut mixtures?
Imports of dried fruits and mixtures of nuts or dried fruits under heading 0813 are subject to duty rates from 0% to 9.6%. Rates depend on the product type — dried apricots, prunes and mixtures each have different rates within CN subheadings. Preferential rates apply for countries with EU trade agreements, including Turkey (a major exporter of dried apricots and figs) and ACP nations. Mixtures of nuts and fruits are classified separately from their individual components. Current duty rates should be verified in the European Commission's TARIC database. Classification follows the Combined Nomenclature (CN) of the European Union.
What documents and controls apply to importing dried fruits into the EU?
A phytosanitary certificate is required when importing dried fruits under heading 0813. Products are subject to mandatory aflatoxin and mycotoxin testing, which is particularly critical for nuts and dried fruits. A customs declaration with correct CN classification and a commercial invoice are necessary. Notification through the TRACES system is required. Products from certain countries face intensified border controls under European Commission implementing regulations. Current duty rates should be verified in the European Commission's TARIC database. Classification follows the Combined Nomenclature (CN) of the European Union.
What should importers consider when importing dried fruits and nut-fruit mixtures?
Aflatoxin and mycotoxin controls are a key challenge — exceeding permissible limits results in refusal of entry. Storage and transport conditions must prevent mould development. Labelling must meet EU requirements, including allergen information for nuts. Mixtures require proper classification as their composition affects the duty rate. Dried fruits with added preservatives such as sulphur dioxide must comply with EU limits on food additives. Shelf life and packaging integrity should be verified. This applies to goods classified under heading 0813 of the Combined Nomenclature. Current duty rates should be verified in the European Commission's TARIC database. Classification follows the Combined Nomenclature (CN) of the European Union.
Useful tools & resources
Customs calculators
Duty & VAT CalculatorCalculate customs duty and VAT for "Fruit, dried, other than that of headings 0801 to 0806; mixtures of nuts or dried fruits of this chapter" and see the full import cost.Excise Duty CalculatorCheck if your goods are subject to excise duty and calculate the tax amount.Import Profitability CalculatorCheck the import profitability of "Fruit, dried, other than that of headings 0801 to 0806; mixtures of nuts or dried fruits of this chapter" with all costs included.
Related glossary terms