What is the HS code for vodka?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
HS-4 · Heading
2208 — Ethyl alcohol, undenatured; of an alcoholic strength by volume of less than 80% volume; spirits, liqueurs and other spirituous beverages
Chapter 22: Beverages, spirits and vinegar
Plain-language overview
Use HS-4 2208 when importing undenatured ethyl alcohol with an alcoholic strength of less than 80% by volume. For example, if you're bringing in a shipment of gin with an ABV of 40%, this heading applies. Understanding the specific HS-6 subheading is crucial for compliance and accurate duty assessment.
When deciding between HS-6 lines, consider the origin of the spirit. For instance, if your product is a whiskey distilled from grains, you would classify it under HS-6 220830. However, if it’s a spirit made from grapes, you should use HS-6 220820. Each subheading has distinct characteristics based on ingredients and production methods.
If you're dealing with rum or spirits derived from sugar-cane products, HS-6 220840 is the appropriate choice. On the other hand, if your product is a liqueur or cordial, you will need to classify it under HS-6 220870. Make sure to assess the product's composition and intended use to select the correct subheading.
Keywords & topics
Useful terms traders and brokers use for this HS-4 heading.
ethyl alcohol import · spirits classification · undernatured alcohol · HS-4 2208 · spirituous beverages · whiskey import code · gin HS-6 · rum classification · liqueurs and cordials · vodka import regulations · alcoholic strength by volume · spirit import duties · beverage import compliance · distilled spirits · alcohol shipping guidelines
Examples
Drawn from the official tariff wording for this HS-4 heading. Always confirm against your published schedule and legal notes.
- Grapes used for distillation in products like brandy (HS-6 220820)
- Whiskey made from malted barley (HS-6 220830)
- Rum produced from molasses (HS-6 220840)
- Gin flavored with botanicals (HS-6 220850)
- Vodka distilled from grains or potatoes (HS-6 220860)
- Fruit-based liqueurs like Amaretto (HS-6 220870)
- Miscellaneous spirituous beverages not classified elsewhere (HS-6 220890)
Common questions
Frequent classification questions with short practical guidance.
How to classify gin for import?
Write down material, use, and product form first, then compare nearby lines before you lock the code.
What are the requirements for importing spirits?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
Which HS-6 line applies to rum?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
How to determine the correct HS code for liqueurs?
Match the product to the legal wording, then verify the final pick in your country tariff schedule before filing.
What is the difference between HS-6 220870 and 220890?
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.
how to classify undenatured ethyl alcohol
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
importing spirits with less than 80% ABV
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
HS code for different types of whiskey
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
requirements for importing gin and geneva
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
how to choose between HS-6 subheadings for spirits
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
import duties on liqueurs and cordials
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
understanding alcoholic strength in import classifications
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
guidelines for shipping distilled spirits internationally
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
Questions & answers
For orientation only—the binding text is your national tariff and the WCO nomenclature your country uses.
- What types of beverages fall under HS-4 2208?
- HS-4 2208 includes undenatured ethyl alcohol and various spirituous beverages like whiskey, gin, rum, and liqueurs, all with an ABV of less than 80%.
- How do I determine the correct HS-6 code for my spirit?
- Identify the main ingredient and production method of your spirit. For example, use HS-6 220820 for grape-based spirits and HS-6 220830 for whiskey.
- Are there specific import regulations for liqueurs?
- Yes, liqueurs must be classified under HS-6 220870, and you should comply with local regulations regarding labeling and alcohol content.
- What is the difference between HS-6 220890 and other subheadings?
- HS-6 220890 covers spirits and liqueurs not specifically classified elsewhere, making it a catch-all for miscellaneous beverages.
- Can I import spirits with an ABV over 80% under this heading?
- No, HS-4 2208 only applies to spirits with an alcoholic strength of less than 80% by volume. For higher ABV products, different classifications apply.
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