What is HS code for rum?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
HS-6 · Subheading
220840
Rum and other spirits obtained by distilling fermented sugar-cane products
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 220840 when importing or exporting rum and other spirits made from fermented sugar-cane products with an alcoholic strength under 80% by volume. For instance, if you're shipping a batch of Caribbean rum, this is the correct classification.
This code specifically covers rum, which is distinct from other spirits like whiskey or vodka, classified under different HS codes. If you have a product like vodka, you would look at HS-6 220810 instead.
When classifying products, it's crucial to note that this HS-6 line applies only to undenatured ethyl alcohol. If your product has been denatured, it would fall under a different category, such as HS-6 2207.
Understanding the nuances between these codes helps ensure compliance with customs regulations and avoids potential delays or penalties during import/export processes.
Keywords & topics
Useful terms traders and brokers use for this HS-6 subheading.
rum classification · spirits from sugar cane · undernatured ethyl alcohol · importing rum · exporting spirits · alcohol strength under 80% · distilled sugar cane products · Caribbean rum · spiced rum · aged rum · light rum · flavored rum · bulk rum shipments · miniature rum bottles · customs classification · alcohol import regulations
Examples
Drawn from the official tariff wording for this HS-6 subheading. Always confirm against your published schedule and legal notes.
- Caribbean rum bottled at 40% ABV
- Spiced rum made from distilled sugar cane
- Aged rum with a complex flavor profile
- Light rum used in cocktails and mixed drinks
- Organic rum produced from sustainably sourced sugar cane
- Flavored rum with added fruit essences
- Bulk shipments of rum for distribution to retailers
- Miniature rum bottles for promotional giveaways
Common questions
Frequent classification questions with short practical guidance.
How to classify rum for customs?
Write down material, use, and product form first, then compare nearby lines before you lock the code.
Is flavored rum covered under HS-220840?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
What are the requirements for importing rum?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
Can I export rum with HS-220840?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
What is the difference between HS-220840 and HS-220810?
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.
What products fall under HS-220840?
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 my rum shipment for customs
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
What are the regulations for exporting spirits under HS-220840
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
Differences between rum and other spirits HS codes
Compare adjacent HS lines and pick the one that matches material, function, and product form most closely.
Can I ship flavored rum under HS-220840
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
Requirements for importing rum from the Caribbean
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
What is the alcohol strength limit for HS-220840
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
Best practices for rum classification for importers
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
Understanding HS codes for distilled sugar cane products
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 rum are classified under HS-220840?
- HS-220840 covers all types of rum made from fermented sugar-cane products with an alcoholic strength of less than 80% by volume, including spiced and flavored rums.
- How do I know if my rum is undenatured?
- Undenatured rum is pure alcohol without any additives that alter its chemical structure. If your rum is intended for consumption, it is likely undenatured.
- Can I use HS-220840 for rum with added flavors?
- Yes, flavored rums can still be classified under HS-220840 as long as they maintain the required alcoholic strength and are derived from sugar-cane products.
- What should I do if my rum has a higher alcohol content?
- If your rum has an alcoholic strength of 80% or more, you would need to classify it under a different HS code, such as **HS-2208** for spirits with higher alcohol content.
- Are there special import regulations for rum?
- Yes, importing rum may involve specific regulations, including labeling requirements, proof of age, and compliance with local alcohol laws. Always check with customs before shipping.
- How can I ensure compliance when exporting rum?
- To ensure compliance, verify the HS code, check the alcohol strength, and familiarize yourself with both exporting and importing country regulations regarding alcohol shipments.
- What documentation do I need for shipping rum?
- You will typically need a commercial invoice, packing list, and possibly a certificate of origin or health certificate, depending on the destination country's requirements.
- Is there a difference between rum and other spirits in classification?
- Yes, rum is classified separately under HS-220840, while other spirits like vodka and whiskey have their own specific HS codes, reflecting their different production processes and ingredients.
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