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
Short phrases that describe this HS-4 heading when you're searching or filtering schedules.
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
How people often phrase their search when they're trying to classify goods like yours.
- What is the HS code for vodka?
- How to classify gin for import?
- What are the requirements for importing spirits?
- Which HS-6 line applies to rum?
- How to determine the correct HS code for liqueurs?
- What is the difference between HS-6 220870 and 220890?
Related topics
Longer phrases that come up when you're comparing codes or talking to a broker.
- how to classify undenatured ethyl alcohol
- importing spirits with less than 80% ABV
- HS code for different types of whiskey
- requirements for importing gin and geneva
- how to choose between HS-6 subheadings for spirits
- import duties on liqueurs and cordials
- understanding alcoholic strength in import classifications
- guidelines for shipping distilled spirits internationally
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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