HS Codes for Dried Flowers: Complete Import/Export Classification Guide

Understanding HS Codes: The Basics

The Harmonized System (HS) code is an internationally standardized system of names and numbers to classify traded products. Developed by the World Customs Organization (WCO) and used by over 200 countries and territories, HS codes determine tariff rates, import duties, and regulatory requirements for goods crossing international borders.

HS codes consist of six digits at the global level, with many countries expanding to eight or ten digits for more specific product classification. Understanding which HS code applies to your dried flower products is critical for compliance, cost management, and avoiding customs delays or penalties.

Primary HS Codes for Dried Flowers and Rose Petals

HS Code 06039000: Dried Flowers for Bouquets or Decoration

This is the most common classification for dried rose petals intended for decorative, aesthetic, or culinary purposes. The full classification breakdown is:

• 06: Live trees and other plants, bulbs, roots, cut flowers, and florist supplies
• 603: Cut flowers and flower buds, fresh, dried, or treated with preservatives
• 06039: Dried flowers and dried flower buds
• 06039000: Dried flowers and dried flower buds, suitable for bouquets or decorative purposes

This code applies to whole dried petals, dried rose heads, and dried flower arrangements. The key criterion is that the product remains in its natural botanical form—not processed into extracts, powders, or concentrated forms.

When to Use 06039000

Use HS Code 06039000 for:

• Dried rose petals sold as whole petals
• Dried flowers intended for tea blends where botanical material is visibly recognizable
• Decorative dried flower products
• Culinary applications with visible dried petals
• Craft or hobby applications

HS Code 121190: Other Plants and Plant Parts

This secondary classification applies to dried flowers and rose petals processed for pharmaceutical, herbal, perfumery, or insecticidal purposes. The breakdown is:

• 12: Oil seeds and oleaginous fruits, miscellaneous grains, seeds, and fruits
• 1211: Plants and parts of plants used in perfumery, pharmacy, or insecticides
• 121190: Other plants and parts of plants used in perfumery, pharmacy, or as insecticides

This code is more specific for processed botanical materials and medical/pharmaceutical applications.

When to Use 121190

Use HS Code 121190 for:

• Dried rose petals ground into powder or meal
• Rose petal extracts or concentrates
• Pharmaceutical-grade dried flowers for medicinal formulations
• Botanical ingredients for cosmetic formulations (extracts)
• Perfumery materials and fragrance components
• Herbal medicine preparations

How to Determine the Correct HS Code for Your Product

Step 1: Assess Product Form

The first critical decision: Is your product a whole botanical or a processed ingredient?

• Whole dried petals/flowers: Likely 06039000
• Processed (powdered, extracted, concentrated): Likely 121190

Step 2: Identify Primary Application

Consider how your product will be used:

• Decorative/culinary: Points toward 06039000
• Pharmaceutical/medicinal: Points toward 121190
• Cosmetic ingredient: Depends on form; may be either code
• Perfumery: Typically 121190

Step 3: Review Regulatory Documentation

Check your product's intended use label, certifications, and regulatory approvals. Pharmaceutical products require different classification than decorative or food-grade materials, even if botanically identical.

Step 4: Consult Customs Authorities

When uncertainty exists, request a Binding Tariff Information (BTI) classification from your country's customs authority before importing. This formal advance classification prevents disputes and provides legal protection for your shipments.

Typical Tariff Rates for Dried Flowers

While HS codes don't determine duty rates directly (these depend on trade agreements and destination countries), understanding general ranges helps with cost planning:

Note: Duty rates are subject to trade agreements, origin rules, and periodic review. Always verify current rates with your customs broker or the relevant country's tariff database.

Country-Specific Variations and Regulations

United States

The US Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTSUS) uses 10-digit codes. Dried flowers enter duty-free under both 0603.90.00 and 1211.90.00. However, phytosanitary certificates are required, and the FDA regulates products intended for human consumption. Botanical materials for dietary supplements or cosmetics require appropriate facility registration and labeling compliance.

European Union

EU countries follow the Combined Nomenclature (CN), which extends HS codes to 8 digits. Dried flowers classified as 0603 90 00 or 1211 90 90 face variable duties depending on origin. Products destined for food use require compliance with food safety regulations (EC 2002/67), and cosmetic applications must follow the Cosmetics Regulation (EC 1223/2009).

China

As a major destination market for dried flowers, China uses the HS classification system but may reclassify products upon import based on stated use. Dried flowers for cosmetic use may be subject to higher scrutiny and requirements for cosmetic ingredient certification. Import licenses may be required for certain botanical products.

India

India's Harmonized System code structure includes HS codes 0603 9090 and 1211 9090. Products exported to India must comply with Ayurvedic medicine regulations if marketed for health claims. Phytosanitary certificates and quality certifications are essential for import approval.

Documentation Requirements for Dried Flower Imports

Essential Export Documents

When shipping dried flowers internationally, prepare:

• Commercial Invoice: Clearly state HS code, product description, quantity, value, and intended use
• Packing List: Detailed breakdown of packaging contents and weights
• Phytosanitary Certificate: Required by most countries to certify the product is free from pests and diseases
• Certificate of Origin: Documents the country where the product was grown/processed
• Quality Certificates: Lab testing results for microbial contamination, pesticide residues, heavy metals
• Bill of Lading: Shipping documentation from the carrier

Import Requirements by Destination

Key regulations vary by market:

• USA: FDA facility registration, ingredient declaration, phytosanitary certificate
• EU: Safety assessment, compliance statement, traceability documentation
• Canada: Phytosanitary certificate, product identity statement, allergen labeling
• Australia: Import permit, quarantine clearance, food standards compliance

Common HS Code Mistakes Importers Make

Misclassification Due to Ambiguous Product Descriptions

Suppliers sometimes use vague terminology like "dried rose material" without specifying whether petals are whole or ground. This ambiguity can lead to incorrect classification and customs delays. Always require detailed product specifications from suppliers, including physical form, intended use, and any processing applied.

Applying the Wrong Code Based on Intended Use Without Considering Product Form

Even if you intend to use dried rose petals in a cosmetic formulation, if the physical product is whole petals, HS Code 06039000 may be more appropriate than 121190. Classification must reflect the actual product form, not just intended application. Consult with customs brokers when uncertainty exists.

Overlooking Country-Specific Subheadings

Different countries use additional subheadings beyond the standard 6-digit HS code. The US uses 10 digits, the EU uses 8 digits, and other countries may have their own extended codes. Ensure your documentation aligns with your destination country's classification system.

Failing to Update Documentation When Product Specifications Change

If suppliers modify processing methods or particle size, the appropriate HS code may change. Regularly review and update your import documentation to reflect current product specifications, avoiding the risk of reclassification or penalties during customs inspections.

Neglecting to Obtain Binding Tariff Information (BTI)

The most costly mistake is shipping without confirming HS classification in advance. A BTI ruling from customs authorities provides legal certainty and protects your shipments. For high-value orders or new product categories, investing in BTI classification prevents far greater costs from delays or reclassification duties.

Optimization Strategies for HS Code Selection

Dual Certification for Flexibility

Some exporters obtain certifications supporting both decorative (06039000) and medicinal (121190) uses. This flexibility allows importers to adjust classification based on market conditions and duty rate variations.

Working with Customs Brokers

Experienced customs brokers understand nuances in classification and can help optimize HS code selection to minimize duty exposure while maintaining compliance. Their expertise particularly valuable for novel product forms or uncertain classifications.

Leveraging Free Trade Agreements

Verify whether your exporting country has preferential trade agreements with destination markets. Products from eligible origins may qualify for reduced or zero duty rates even under the same HS classification. Rules of origin documentation becomes critical to claim these benefits.

Regulatory Compliance Checklist

Before importing dried flowers, ensure you have:

• Confirmed HS code with customs authority or broker
• Verified applicable duty rates and trade agreements
• Obtained all required certifications (phytosanitary, quality, origin)
• Prepared accurate commercial invoices with proper HS code declaration
• Ensured product labeling complies with destination country regulations
• Arranged appropriate facility registration if applicable
• Established traceability documentation from supplier
• Confirmed insurance coverage for transit

Conclusion: Staying Compliant in Global Trade

HS codes form the backbone of international trade compliance for dried flowers and rose petals. Understanding the distinction between HS Code 06039000 (decorative/whole botanical) and 121190 (processed/pharmaceutical) ensures your imports clear customs efficiently and avoids costly reclassifications or penalties.

The botanical trade industry benefits greatly from advance planning: engage customs brokers early, obtain Binding Tariff Information when appropriate, and maintain detailed documentation of product specifications and intended uses. By mastering HS code classification, you position yourself for success in the dynamic global dried flower market.