What is HS code 220820 used for?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
HS-6 · Subheading
220820
Spirits obtained by distilling grape wine or grape marc
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-6 220820 when importing or exporting spirits obtained by distilling grape wine or grape marc, such as brandy or grappa. For example, if you’re shipping a case of Italian grappa, this is the correct code to use.
This code specifically covers spirits with an alcoholic strength by volume of less than 80%. It’s important to distinguish it from HS-6 220830, which pertains to spirits distilled from other sources, such as sugar cane or fruits other than grapes.
When classifying products, remember that grape-based spirits like Cognac or Armagnac also fall under this code. In contrast, if you’re dealing with a liqueur made from these spirits, you would look at a different classification under HS-6 220870.
Understanding the nuances between these codes can help avoid misclassification. For instance, if you’re unsure whether your product is considered a spirit or a liqueur, check the alcohol content and ingredients.
Keywords & topics
Useful terms traders and brokers use for this HS-6 subheading.
spirits distilled from grapes · brandy classification · grappa import code · Cognac HS code · Orujo spirits · alcohol strength under 80% · grape marc distillate · bulk spirits import · European spirits regulations · distilled beverages · liquor classification · alcohol shipping requirements · spirituous beverages · grape-based liqueurs · international trade spirits · distillation products · beverage import codes
Examples
Drawn from the official tariff wording for this HS-6 subheading. Always confirm against your published schedule and legal notes.
- A shipment of 500 liters of French Cognac
- Cases of Italian Grappa for retail distribution
- Bottles of Spanish Orujo, a pomace brandy
- A bulk import of Portuguese Aguardente
- Samples of grape distillate for a tasting event
- A mixed pallet of various grape-based spirits
- Exporting a limited edition bottle of Armagnac
- Importing grape marc distillates for blending
Common questions
Frequent classification questions with short practical guidance.
How to classify grape-based spirits?
Write down material, use, and product form first, then compare nearby lines before you lock the code.
Is grappa classified under HS 220820?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
What are the requirements for importing brandy?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
Differences between HS 220820 and 220830?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
Can I export Cognac with HS code 220820?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
What types of spirits fall under HS 220820?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
How to determine the alcohol strength for classification?
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 grape distillates for customs
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
What products are included in HS code 220820
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
Importing spirits distilled from grape wine
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
Distillation process for grape-based beverages
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
Understanding alcohol strength in HS classification
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
Shipping requirements for imported brandy
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
Differences between grape spirits and liqueurs
Compare adjacent HS lines and pick the one that matches material, function, and product form most closely.
Best practices for classifying alcoholic beverages
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 spirits are classified under HS code 220820?
- HS code 220820 includes spirits obtained by distilling grape wine or grape marc, such as brandy, grappa, and other grape-based distillates.
- How can I ensure my product is classified correctly?
- Check the alcohol content and ingredients. If your product is a grape-based spirit with less than 80% alcohol by volume, it likely falls under HS 220820.
- What is the difference between HS 220820 and HS 220830?
- HS 220820 covers grape-based spirits, while HS 220830 pertains to spirits distilled from other sources, such as sugar cane or fruits other than grapes.
- Are liqueurs made from grape spirits classified under HS 220820?
- No, liqueurs made from grape spirits are classified under a different code, typically HS 220870.
- Can I import grape distillates for blending?
- Yes, you can import grape distillates for blending, and you would use HS code 220820 for such products.
- What documentation do I need for importing spirits?
- You will need to provide import permits, proof of alcohol content, and any necessary health and safety certifications.
- Is there a limit on the quantity of spirits I can import?
- Import limits can vary by country, so check local regulations for specific quantity restrictions on spirits.
- What are the labeling requirements for imported grape spirits?
- Labeling requirements typically include the product name, alcohol content, origin, and any health warnings as mandated by the importing country.
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