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šŸ£ Customs Clarity: Easter Symbols

Decode the customs classification of the top 10 Easter symbols and keep your trade fully compliant this spring.

Officer with magnifying glass examines colorful eggs labeled with text in a garden. People search around, mood is playful and curious.
Crack the Easter code: Customs officers hunt for hidden classifications among vibrant eggs to ensure trade compliance this spring.

Easter is more than just chocolate eggs and cute bunnies. Itā€™s a deeply rooted tradition celebrated across cultures and continents, blending religious reverence, seasonal change, and joyous customs. Whether youā€™re watching passion plays in Spain, tucking into a Simnel cake in the UK, solving crime mysteries in Norway, or dyeing eggs with the family in Germany, Easter means something unique to everyone.


For many, Good Friday remains a solemn day: dancing bans, closed businesses, and quiet reflection mark the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Yet Easter Sunday bursts into celebrationā€”a resurrection not just of Christ for Christians, but of life, light, and renewal.


So what happens when these symbols cross borders? How do Customs professionals, Import/Export specialists, and Trade Compliance officersĀ make sense of it all?

This blog dives into the customs classificationĀ of 10 iconic Easter itemsā€”plus a bonus entry on the age-old art of egg dyeing.


Key Questions Covered in This Blog

  • How do we classify common Easter items in the customs context?

  • What are the UK HS Codes (UK Global Trade Tariff) for these items?

  • Are there special rules to consider for dyed eggs and decorative goods?

  • What are the compliance considerations for imports into the UK, EU, and USA?


ā€œTo truly celebrate Easter in global trade, you need more than eggsā€”you need insight, accuracy, and compliant classification.ā€ā€“ Arne Mielken, Managing Director, Customs Manager

Abbreviations Used In This Blog


HS Code: Harmonised System Code

CN Code: Combined Nomenclature Code (EU version of HS)

UK GTT: UK Global Trade Tariff

US HTS: US HArmonised Tariff System

WCO: World Customs Organization


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šŸ£ How Do We Classify the Easter Egg?

The Easter EggĀ symbolises new life and rebirthā€”whether painted, chocolate-filled, or used as decoration. Classification depends on its materialĀ and intended use.

  • šŸ« Chocolate eggsĀ (with or without fillings):

    • CN Code: 1806.90

    • UK GTT: 1806.90.90.00

    • US HTS: 1806.90.0090

  • šŸ„š Plastic decorative eggs:

    • CN Code: 9505.10

    • UK GTT: 9505.10.00.00

    • US HTS: 9505.10.2500

  • šŸ“ Chicken-based (natural) eggs:

    • CN Code: 0407.21.00

    • UK GTT: 0407.21.00.00

    • US HTS: 0407.21.0090

šŸ” Top Tip: Donā€™t forget food safety regulations, health certificates, and phytosanitary requirementsĀ when importing natural eggs.

šŸ° Whatā€™s the Classification of the Easter Bunny?

The Easter Bunny, a springtime fertility symbol, appears in various formatsā€”edible, plush, or ornamental.

  • šŸ« Chocolate rabbits:

    • CN Code: 1806.90

    • UK GTT: 1806.90.90.00

    • US HTS: 1806.90.0090

  • šŸ§ø Stuffed toy rabbits:

    • CN Code: 9503.00

    • UK GTT: 9503.00.29.00

    • US HTS: 9503.00.0073

  • šŸŖµ Ceramic or porcelain dĆ©cor rabbits:

    • CN Code: 6913.90

    • UK GTT: 6913.90.00.00

    • US HTS: 6913.90.5000

šŸ›”ļø Importer Alert: Always check toy safety standards, CE/UKCA marking, and REACH complianceĀ for plastic or fabric materials.

šŸŒ· What HS Code Applies to Spring Flowers like Tulips?

Flowers add charm to any Easter celebration.

  • šŸŒ· Fresh tulips:

    • CN Code: 0603.13.00

    • UK GTT: 0603.13.00.00

    • US HTS: 0603.13.0000

  • šŸ’ Artificial flowers (plastic/silk):

    • CN Code: 6702.10

    • UK GTT: 6702.10.00.00

    • US HTS: 6702.10.2000


šŸ“„ Donā€™t forget: Phytosanitary certificationĀ for live plants and origin markingĀ for artificial versions.

āœļø What About the Cross?

Crosses serve as religious artefacts, dƩcor, or keepsakes.

  • šŸŒ³ Wooden crosses:

    • CN Code: 4420.10.00

    • UK GTT: 4420.10.00.00

    • US HTS: 4420.10.0000

  • šŸŖ™ Metal crosses:

    • CN Code: 8306.29.00

    • UK GTT: 8306.29.00.00

    • US HTS: 8306.29.0000

šŸŽÆ Note: Classification may shift based on sizeĀ and functionĀ (religious vs decorative).

šŸ•Šļø How to Classify the Lamb?

The Easter LambĀ represents purity and sacrifice.

  • šŸ§ Edible sugar lambs:

    • CN Code: 1704.90.71

    • UK GTT: 1704.90.71.00

    • US HTS: 1704.90.3550

  • šŸ§ø Toy/plush lambs:

    • CN Code: 9503.00

    • UK GTT: 9503.00.29.00

    • US HTS: 9503.00.0073

  • šŸ– Real lamb meat (frozen/fresh):

    • CN Code: 0204.10ā€“0204.50

    • UK GTT: 0204.10.00.00

    • US HTS: 0204.10.0000 (Carcasses & half-carcasses of lamb, fresh or chilled)

šŸ§Ŗ Watch out: Animal products require veterinary certificatesĀ and border inspection.

šŸ•Æļø Whatā€™s the Tariff Code for Candles?

Candles illuminate Easter services and homes.

  • šŸ•Æļø Paraffin or stearin candles:

    • CN Code: 3406.00.00

    • UK GTT: 3406.00.00.00

    • US HTS: 3406.00.0000

āš ļø Labelling Alert: Include fragranceĀ and allergen informationĀ under US and UK consumer protection laws.

šŸ§ŗ How is the Easter Basket Classified?

Essential for egg hunts and gifting, baskets vary by material.

  • šŸŒ¾ Wicker baskets:

    • CN Code: 4602.12

    • UK GTT: 4602.12.00.00

    • US HTS: 4602.12.1000

  • šŸ§“ Plastic baskets:

    • CN Code: 3924.90

    • UK GTT: 3924.90.00.00

    • US HTS: 3924.90.5650

šŸ’” Customs tip: Valuation depends on intended useā€”gift packaging vs household utility.

šŸŒæ Are Palm Leaves Regulated?

Palm branches are key symbols for Palm Sunday.

  • šŸŒæ Fresh palm fronds:

    • CN Code: 0604.91.00

    • UK GTT: 0604.91.00.00

    • US HTS: 0604.91.0000

  • šŸ‚ Dried decorative leaves:

    • CN Code: 1404.90

    • UK GTT: 1404.90.00.00

    • US HTS: 1404.90.9090

šŸŒ Tip: Some palms fall under CITES regulations. Verify if import permits are required.

šŸž Whatā€™s the Code for Hot Cross Buns?

This British Easter staple is loved worldwide.

  • šŸž Hot cross buns (ready-made):

    • CN Code: 1905.90.30

    • UK GTT: 1905.90.30.00

    • US HTS: 1905.90.1041

  • šŸ„£ Dough for buns:

    • CN Code: 1901.20

    • UK GTT: 1901.20.00.00

    • US HTS: 1901.20.0000

šŸ“¦ Import Consideration: Labelling must include ingredient allergensĀ and expiration dates.

šŸ„ How to Classify Chicks?

A symbol of rebirthā€”real or symbolic.

  • šŸ¬ Sugar or jelly chicks:

    • CN Code: 1704.90

    • UK GTT: 1704.90.71.00

    • US HTS: 1704.90.3550

  • šŸ§ø Toy chicks:

    • CN Code: 9503.00

    • UK GTT: 9503.00.29.00

    • US HTS: 9503.00.0073

āœ… Compliance Reminder: Ensure toy testingĀ (EN71, ASTM F963) for market entry.

šŸŽØ What About Egg Colouring Kits & Natural Dyes?

Colouring eggs is a cherished traditionā€”especially in Northern and Eastern Europe. šŸ‡©šŸ‡ŖšŸ‡µšŸ‡±šŸ‡³šŸ‡“

  • šŸŽØ Food-grade dye kits:

    • CN Code: 3213.10

    • UK GTT: 3213.10.00.00

    • US HTS: 3213.10.0000

  • šŸŒæ Natural colour powders:

    • šŸŒ• Turmeric powder:

      • CN: 0910.30

      • UK GTT: 0910.30.00.00

      • US HTS: 0910.30.0000

    • šŸŸ„ Beetroot powder:

      • CN: 0712.90.90

      • UK GTT: 0712.90.90.00

      • US HTS: 0712.90.8580

    • šŸŸ£ Red cabbage (dried):

      • CN: 0712.90.90

      • UK GTT: 0712.90.90.00

      • US HTS: 0712.90.8580

šŸ§¾ Always ensure labelling and compositional declarationsĀ under food lawsĀ when dyes are edible.

Arneā€™s Takeaway

Every Easter item, from a chocolate egg to a palm leaf, tells a storyā€”and has a tariff code. With trade stretching across borders, understanding how these items are classified is essential for Customs professionalsĀ and Trade Compliance teams.

Use this blog to prepare your seasonal imports, educate your teams, and ensure full Customs Complianceā€”so the joy of Easter isnā€™t lost in paperwork!


About the Author

Arne MielkenĀ is an international trade and customs expert with over 20 years of experience. He has held senior positions at Big 4 ConsultanciesĀ and global trade technology companies, and is the Managing Director of Customs Manager Ltd. Arne is a Freeman of the City of London, a Liveryman of the Worshipful Company of World Traders, and a member of various professional associations.


Expert Recommendations

  • Classify goods accuratelyĀ using up-to-date UK GTT, US HTS and CN Codes.

  • Always review the intended useĀ and compositionĀ before assigning a tariff.

  • Check seasonal import controls, especially on live plants, meat, and toys.

  • Subscribe to our Customs Watch EU & UK or the The Customs Watch USAĀ to receive alerts before busy seasons.


Sources & Further Information


Disclaimer

This blog is for educational purposesĀ only and not legal advice. For formal guidance, consult a customs professional or legal expert. Book a free consult at www.customsmanager.org.


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