0307.51.00.00 - Live, fresh or chilled

This HTS classification, 0307.51.00.00, specifically covers octopus (Octopus spp.) that are alive, fresh, or chilled. This designation applies to octopus that have not undergone any preservation processes that would alter their natural state, such as freezing, drying, salting, or smoking. The key characteristic for classification under this code is the temperature and preservation status of the octopus at the time of importation.

It is important to distinguish this category from its siblings. HTS code 0307.52.00.00 covers octopus that have been frozen, indicating a significant change in preservation method. Similarly, 0307.59.01.00 encompasses all other forms of octopus not specified as live, fresh, chilled, or frozen, which would typically include dried, salted, brined, or smoked preparations. Therefore, 0307.51.00.00 is strictly for octopus in its most immediate post-harvest state.

As this is a leaf node within the HTS classification system, there are no further subcategories for this specific item. All qualifying octopus products fitting the criteria of live, fresh, or chilled will be classified under this single code. Classification decisions for these goods will rely heavily on documentation verifying the temperature and preservation state as declared by the importer.