Duty Rates
General (Column 1 - MFN)
Free
This item enters the United States duty-free. No import duty is charged regardless of origin country.
Column 2 Rate (Non-Tariff Treaty Countries)
This rate applies to countries without normal trade relations (most-favored-nation status) with the United States:
$2.35/pf. liter
Column 2 rates are substantially higher than Column 1 rates and are rarely applied in modern international trade due to most-favored-nation agreements.
What HTS 2208.20.20.00 Covers
This line covers grape brandy, meaning spirits distilled from grape wine or grape marc, imported in containers each holding not over 4 liters and valued not over 2.38 dollars per liter. In practice this means lower-priced bottled brandy for retail sale. Pisco and singani have their own separate line and are excluded.
Notes for Importers
Classification under 2208.20 depends on the spirit being distilled from grape wine or grape pomace; fruit brandies from apples, pears, or cherries classify under 2208.90 instead. The container size and per-liter value thresholds determine which line within 2208.20 applies, so verify both invoice value and packaging before entry. TTB permits, COLA label approval, and federal excise tax obligations apply to all imported spirits.
Product Category
Prepared Foodstuffs
This chapter includes prepared and preserved meat, fish, vegetables, fruit, and other processed food products ready for consumption.
Classification Details
| Field | Value |
|---|
| HTS Code | 2208.20.20.00 |
| Description | Valued not over $2.38/liter |
| Chapter | 22 - Prepared Foodstuffs |
| General Duty Rate | Free |
| Rate Type | Free |
| Special Rates | |
Related HTS Codes
Other tariff codes under the same heading:
Frequently Asked Questions
What determines whether brandy falls under this line?
Three things: it must be a spirit distilled from grape wine or grape marc, packed in containers of 4 liters or less, and fall at or under the per-liter value threshold stated in the tariff. Higher-value or bulk-packed brandy moves to adjacent lines within 2208.20.
Does this code cover pisco or fruit brandies?
No. Pisco and singani are provided for separately within 2208.20, and brandies made from fruits other than grapes, such as calvados or kirsch, are classified under 2208.90.
What is the HTS code 2208.20.20.00 used for?
HTS code 2208.20.20.00 is the harmonized tariff schedule code for Valued not over $2.38/liter. This code is used to classify and identify this product type for customs clearance, duty calculation, and trade statistics.
What is the Column 2 rate for HTS 2208.20.20.00?
The Column 2 rate is the tariff duty rate applicable to goods from countries that do not have normal trade relations with the United States. This rate is typically higher than Column 1 (Most Favored Nation) rates and is rarely used in modern trade due to most-favored-nation agreements.
Do I need a customs broker to import goods classified under HTS 2208.20.20.00?
While not always required, using a licensed customs broker is highly recommended for most imports. A customs broker can help ensure proper HTS classification, prepare customs documentation, pay duties correctly, and avoid delays or penalties. Your broker should be familiar with Prepared Foodstuffs products.
Which countries receive special tariff rates for HTS 2208.20.20.00?
Multiple free trade agreements and trade preference programs provide reduced or free tariffs for eligible HTS classifications. Common programs include USMCA (Canada, Mexico), various bilateral FTAs (Korea, Australia, Singapore), GSP for developing countries, and AGOA for eligible African nations. Check the special rates section on this page.
How does HTS code 2208.20.20.00 affect my import costs?
The HTS code determines the applicable duty rate (either free or a percentage/specific amount), whether your product qualifies for trade agreement benefits, any quota restrictions, and special documentation requirements. Proper classification directly impacts your import expenses, so verify the correct code with your supplier or a customs professional.