What is HS code 220870 used for?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
HS-6 · Subheading
220870
Liqueurs and cordials
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 220870 when importing or exporting liqueurs and cordials with an alcoholic strength of less than 80% by volume. For example, if you're shipping a flavored liqueur like Amaretto or a fruit-based cordial, this is the appropriate code.
This code specifically covers sweetened spirits that are flavored with fruits, herbs, or spices. Unlike HS-6 220860, which refers to bitters, HS-6 220870 focuses on liqueurs that are typically enjoyed as after-dinner drinks or used in cocktails.
When classifying products, remember that liqueurs are distinct from spirits like whiskey or vodka, which fall under different HS codes. If your product is a sweet, flavored spirit, HS-6 220870 is likely the right choice.
For products with a higher alcohol content or those that are not sweetened, you may need to look at other classifications. Always ensure your product aligns with the definitions provided in the Harmonized System to avoid customs issues.
Keywords & topics
Useful terms traders and brokers use for this HS-6 subheading.
liqueurs and cordials · HS-6 220870 · alcoholic beverages · sweetened spirits · flavored liqueurs · importing liqueurs · exporting cordials · customs classification · beverage shipping · alcohol strength · spirituous beverages · cocktail ingredients · herb-infused spirits · fruit-based liqueurs
Examples
Drawn from the official tariff wording for this HS-6 subheading. Always confirm against your published schedule and legal notes.
- Amaretto liqueur, 750ml bottles
- Peach schnapps, 1-liter containers
- Coffee liqueur, such as Kahlúa, in bulk for retail
- Herbal liqueurs like Jägermeister, packaged for export
- Fruit cordials, such as elderflower or raspberry, in glass bottles
- Chocolate liqueur, sold in 500ml bottles
- Cream liqueurs, like Irish cream, in various sizes
- Flavored vodka with added sugar, classified as a liqueur
Common questions
Frequent classification questions with short practical guidance.
How to classify flavored liqueurs?
Write down material, use, and product form first, then compare nearby lines before you lock the code.
Is Amaretto classified under HS-6 220870?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
What are the requirements for importing liqueurs?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
Can I export fruit cordials with HS-6 220870?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
What products fall under HS-6 220870?
Use this as a comparison hint, then confirm the final decision with legal notes and country-specific rules.
How do I determine the right HS code for spirits?
Match the product to the legal wording, then verify the final pick in your country tariff schedule before filing.
Are there specific regulations for liqueurs?
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 flavored liqueur for customs?
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
What is the difference between liqueurs and spirits in HS codes?
Compare adjacent HS lines and pick the one that matches material, function, and product form most closely.
Can I use HS-6 220870 for all sweetened spirits?
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
What documentation do I need for exporting liqueurs?
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
Are there restrictions on importing cordials with HS-6 220870?
Check the exact product specs and destination-country tariff notes before finalizing the code.
How to ensure compliance when shipping liqueurs?
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
What types of beverages are included in HS-6 220870?
Use this topic to narrow your shortlist, then validate the final code against legal wording.
How to classify cream liqueurs for customs purposes?
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 products are classified under HS-6 220870?
- HS-6 220870 covers liqueurs and cordials that are sweetened and flavored, such as fruit liqueurs, herbal liqueurs, and cream liqueurs.
- Can I classify my flavored vodka as HS-6 220870?
- Yes, if the flavored vodka is sweetened and has an alcoholic strength of less than 80% by volume, it can be classified under HS-6 220870.
- What is the difference between HS-6 220870 and HS-6 220860?
- HS-6 220870 refers to sweetened liqueurs and cordials, while HS-6 220860 is for bitters, which are typically more concentrated and less sweet.
- Are there any special regulations for importing liqueurs?
- Yes, importing liqueurs may require specific permits and compliance with local alcohol regulations, including labeling and age restrictions.
- How do I determine the correct HS code for my product?
- To determine the correct HS code, assess the product's composition, alcoholic strength, and intended use, then refer to the Harmonized System guidelines.
- What packaging is required for shipping liqueurs?
- Liqueurs should be packaged securely in glass or plastic bottles, with appropriate labeling that includes the alcohol content and product description.
- Can I export homemade liqueurs under HS-6 220870?
- Yes, but ensure you comply with local regulations for production and labeling, and check if any permits are needed for export.
- What should I do if my product doesn't fit neatly into HS-6 220870?
- If your product doesn't clearly fit into HS-6 220870, consult with a customs broker or refer to the Harmonized System for guidance on alternative classifications.
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