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Sep 15, 2026
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Compare roasted coffee classification by decaffeination status and learn which product details are needed before checking the destination tariff schedule.
September 15, 2026By Exim Agent3 min readView as Markdown

## The roasted coffee decision Roasted coffee is generally analyzed within heading 0901. The next classification question is whether the product is decaffeinated. Under the Harmonized System structure, roasted coffee is separated into non-decaffeinated and decaffeinated branches before a country adds its own national tariff lines. This is a research starting point, not a universal final code. Confirm the destination country's current tariff schedule, the product specification, and the import date before using a long national code or quoting duty. ## 090121 versus 090122 For roasted coffee, the key split is decaffeination status: - **0901.21** covers roasted coffee that is not decaffeinated. - **0901.22** covers roasted coffee that is decaffeinated. The distinction follows the product's processing status. Whole beans and ground coffee can still be roasted coffee; grinding alone does not move a product into a different branch. Keep the supplier's specification and production description with the classification record. ## Check decaffeination status Ask the supplier for a clear statement about whether the coffee has been decaffeinated. Verify the product specification, label, technical sheet, and any supporting certificate used for the shipment. Do not infer decaffeination from the brand name, origin, roast level, or packaging. If a blend includes other ingredients, or if it is presented as an extract, concentrate, or preparation, stop and review the product composition before applying the roasted coffee branches. A product that is not simply roasted coffee may require a different heading analysis. ## Whole beans versus ground coffee Grinding is not the same decision as decaffeination. Record whether the shipment contains whole beans or ground coffee for product identification and documentation, but use the decaffeination status to separate the 0901.21 and 0901.22 branches. The commercial product name should match the technical description. If the invoice says roasted coffee but the ingredient list describes a soluble extract, flavored preparation, or another mixture, keep the discrepancy visible and request clarification. ## Documents to collect Before selecting a destination-country tariff line, collect: - product name and technical specification; - roasted or unroasted status; - decaffeination status and method, if relevant; - whole-bean or ground form; - ingredient list for flavored or mixed products; - packaging, intended use, and label photos; - origin, destination, and planned import date. These details support a reproducible review. They do not replace a customs ruling when the product is unusual or the national schedule is ambiguous. ## Verify the national extension The Harmonized System supplies the international structure, while countries extend it with national subheadings. After confirming roasted and decaffeinated status, check the current tariff schedule for the destination market and revision date. Do not infer duty from 090121 or 090122 alone. Rates can vary by origin, trade agreement, quota, safeguard, or other measure. For a live shipment, confirm the result with the importing authority, customs broker, or a qualified classification specialist. [Review coffee HS classification](https://eximagent.ai/hscode/09/090121) ## Roasted coffee checklist Before handing the result to a logistics or customs team, confirm that: - the product is actually roasted coffee rather than an extract or preparation; - the decaffeination status is documented; - whole-bean or ground form is recorded; - ingredient and label details are available; - the destination country's current tariff schedule has been checked; - the proposed code is tied to the exact product, origin, and import date. The phrase “roasted coffee HS code” is useful for starting research. The reliable path is to establish the product form, verify decaffeination, then check the destination-specific national line before quoting duty or making an import decision. Source boundary: WCO nomenclature for heading 0901 and the current destination tariff schedule should be checked for any final national code or duty claim.
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