0809.30 - Peaches, including nectarines:

This HTS category, 0809.30, specifically covers peaches, which importantly includes nectarines. These are fresh stone fruits characterized by their soft flesh, a distinct groove running down one side, and a single large pit or stone at their center. The inclusion of nectarines, which are essentially smooth-skinned peaches, ensures a comprehensive classification for these popular fruits.

Within Chapter 8, which deals with edible fruits and fruit peels, this heading is distinct from its siblings. 0809.10 classifies fresh apricots, which are typically smaller and less fuzzy than peaches, and 0809.40 covers plums and sloes, distinguished by their smaller size, often tarter flavor, and smoother skin compared to peaches. Cherries, another sibling, are significantly smaller and have a smooth skin without the characteristic groove of peaches.

The subcategories under 0809.30 differentiate based on the timing of entry. 0809.30.20.00 applies to peaches and nectarines entered during the peak season of June 1st to November 30th. Conversely, 0809.30.40 is designated for entries falling outside this period, often referred to as out-of-season imports. This distinction is common in agricultural tariffs to manage seasonality and domestic production.