HS Code for Cork stoppers (metal)

Metal cork stoppers, commonly known as crown corks or bottle caps, are classified under HS code 8309.10. This classification is situated in Chapter 83, which covers miscellaneous articles of base metal. Heading 8309 includes stoppers, caps, and lids (including crown corks, screw caps, and pouring stoppers), capsules for bottles, threaded bungs, bung covers, seals, and other packing accessories of base metal. The subheading 8309.10 specifically identifies "crown corks." Despite the name "cork" being used in the trade description, these items are made of base metal (usually steel or aluminum) and often feature a small plastic or cork liner inside to ensure a vacuum seal. The classification is driven by the material of the outer shell (base metal) and its function as a sealing device for containers. These are ubiquitous in the beverage industry for sealing glass bottles of soda, beer, and mineral water.

Products Included

• Steel crown caps for beer bottles
• Aluminum crown seals
• Pry-off metal bottle caps
• Twist-off crown corks
• Metal beverage closures with internal liners

Common Misclassification

The most common misclassification is with HS code 4503.10, which is for stoppers made of natural cork. Users often search for "cork" and select the first material-based result without realizing that "crown cork" is a metal product. Additionally, plastic screw caps are sometimes confused with this code, but those belong in 3923.50. If the stopper is a decorative wine stopper made of metal, it might be classified under 8309.90 or as a household article in 7323, depending on its design.

FAQ

What is the HS code for metal cork stoppers?

The specific HS code for metal crown corks is 8309.10.

Are aluminum screw caps included in this code?

No, while aluminum screw caps are in heading 8309, they typically fall under 8309.90, as 8309.10 is specifically for crown-style corks.