What is HS code for beer?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
HS-4 · Heading
2203 — Beer made from malt
Chapter 22: Beverages, spirits and vinegar
Plain-language overview
Use HS-4 2203 when importing beer made from malt, such as a shipment of craft lager or ale in kegs. This code specifically covers all types of beer produced from malted grains, regardless of alcohol content.
When determining if 2203 applies, consider the packaging. If your product is packaged in bottles, cans, or kegs, it still falls under this heading. However, if it’s a non-alcoholic malt beverage, you may need to look at other headings.
If you're importing flavored malt beverages or those with added ingredients, ensure they still meet the criteria for malt-based beer. For instance, a fruit-flavored beer remains classified under 2203, while a soft drink with malt may not.
For customs purposes, be aware that this heading does not include spirits or vinegar. If your product contains distilled alcohol or is classified as a spirit, you will need to refer to a different heading.
Keywords & topics
Useful terms traders and brokers use for this HS-4 heading.
beer import code · HS-4 2203 · malt beer classification · importing beer · craft beer HS code · beer packaging regulations · alcohol import codes · flavored malt beverages · customs beer classification · beer made from malt
Examples
Drawn from the official tariff wording for this HS-4 heading. Always confirm against your published schedule and legal notes.
- Craft beer in bottles or cans
- Lager or ale in kegs
- Non-alcoholic malt beverages (check for other codes)
- Flavored malt beverages like fruit beers
- Imported beers from various countries
- Specialty beers like stouts or porters
Common questions
Frequent classification questions with short practical guidance.
How to classify malt beer for import?
Write down material, use, and product form first, then compare nearby lines before you lock the code.
Are flavored beers under HS-4 2203?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
What packaging qualifies for HS-4 2203?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
Is non-alcoholic malt beverage included in HS-4 2203?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
How to import craft beer into the US?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
Related topics
Common real-world topics that come up during code comparison.
beer made from malt import requirements
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
how to classify beer for customs
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
HS-4 code for different types of beer
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
importing flavored malt beverages
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
beer packaging types and classifications
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
customs regulations for importing beer
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
understanding HS-4 2203 for beer
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
beer import duties and tariffs
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
Questions & answers
For orientation only—the binding text is your national tariff and the WCO nomenclature your country uses.
- What types of beer fall under HS-4 2203?
- HS-4 2203 includes all beer made from malt, including lagers, ales, and flavored malt beverages.
- Do I need to declare alcohol content when using HS-4 2203?
- Yes, you should declare the alcohol content as it may affect import duties and regulations.
- Can I import non-alcoholic malt beverages under HS-4 2203?
- Non-alcoholic malt beverages may not be classified under HS-4 2203; check other headings for proper classification.
- What if my beer is in a keg?
- Beer in kegs is still classified under HS-4 2203, as long as it is made from malt.
- Are there specific labeling requirements for importing beer?
- Yes, imported beer must comply with labeling regulations, including alcohol content and origin.
- How do I find the right HS code for flavored beers?
- Flavored beers are still classified under HS-4 2203, but ensure they meet the malt-based criteria.
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