Quick classification guide
4-digit heading: Pick the broad category (e.g. 0101).
Inclusions/exclusions: Confirm your product matches.
Rate check: Verify the latest notifications before filing.
Browse HSN codes in Chapter 01
Next steps
If you’re unsure about the chapter, use the global search and compare descriptions.
Jump to nearby chapters to avoid wrong classification (common GST mistake).
After finalizing your HSN, generate a clean rate card for shop display or staff reference.
Not legal advice • Always verify before filing • Last reviewed: 22 Jan 2026
Analysis of Chapter 01
Covers Live Animals (Horses, Cattle, Poultry). Most live animals are Exempt (NIL Rated) if not used for sports/entertainment.
Included
- Live horses, asses, mules
- Live bovine animals (cattle, buffalo)
- Live swine (pigs)
- Live poultry (chickens, ducks)
- Live insects (bees)
Excluded
- Meat and edible meat offalGo to Ch 02
- Fish and crustaceansGo to Ch 03
- Animal semen / micro-organismsGo to Ch 05
Expert insights
Do not confuse Live Animals (Ch 01) with Meat (Ch 02). Live Poultry is Ch 01; Dressed Chicken is Ch 02.
- • Live Animals (Ch 01) vs Meat (Ch 02): Once slaughtered, classification shifts to Ch 02.
- • Live Poultry (Ch 01) vs Eggs (Ch 04): Eggs are Ch 04.
Compliance checklist
- • 4-digit HSN: turnover-based rules apply (B2B often needs HSN).
- • 6-digit HSN: typically required beyond higher turnover thresholds.
- • Export/Import: use full code as per customs documents.
FAQs for Chapter 01
If I supply a live goat for slaughter, is it Ch 01 or 02?▾
It remains Chapter 01 as long as it is alive. Chapter 02 applies only after slaughter.
Are day-old chicks classified under Chapter 01?▾
Yes. Live poultry, including chicks, falls under Chapter 01.
Does Chapter 01 include animal semen?▾
No. Animal semen is classified under Chapter 05.
Sources & accuracy
General GST guidance, return filing references, and updates.
Rates, exemptions, and clarifications may change via notifications/circulars.
Use chapter notes/headings to avoid misclassification.
Last reviewed: 22 Jan 2026. How we update content + sources.
Not legal advice • Always verify before filing • Page URLs use your deployed site base.