HS Code for Industrial alcohol

Industrial alcohol is classified under HS code 220720. This classification applies to ethyl alcohol and other spirits that have been denatured. Denaturation involves adding chemicals to make the alcohol unfit for human consumption, which is a standard requirement for alcohol used in industrial processes, solvent manufacturing, or fuel production. Chapter 22 covers beverages, spirits, and vinegar, but 2207 specifically deals with ethyl alcohol. The distinction between 220710 (undenatured) and 220720 (denatured) is vital for customs purposes, as denatured alcohol is typically subject to different tax and regulatory frameworks than potable spirits. The strength of the alcohol (measured by volume) does not change the classification under 220720, provided it is denatured. This code is used globally to track the movement of industrial-grade ethanol. Common denaturants include methanol, isopropyl alcohol, or denatonium benzoate. The presence of these additives must be clearly stated in the technical data sheet to justify the use of 220720. Misclassification as undenatured alcohol can lead to significant legal issues and higher excise duties, as undenatured alcohol is often treated as a beverage-grade product regardless of its actual end-use. The classification remains in Chapter 22 because the product is still chemically an alcohol, even if its utility has shifted to industrial applications. It is important to distinguish this from acyclic alcohols in Chapter 29, which are pure chemical compounds not derived from the fermentation processes typical of 2207.

Products Included

• Denatured ethyl alcohol
• Industrial methylated spirits (IMS)
• Denatured ethanol for biofuel production
• Solvent-grade denatured alcohol
• Completely denatured alcohol (CDA)

Common Misclassification

The most common misclassification is 220710, which is for undenatured ethyl alcohol. Another error is using 381400, which covers organic composite solvents; however, if the product is primarily denatured ethyl alcohol, 220720 takes precedence as the more specific heading.

FAQ

What is the HS code for Industrial alcohol?

The HS code for denatured industrial ethyl alcohol is 220720.

Does the alcohol percentage matter for this code?

No, 220720 covers denatured ethyl alcohol of any strength, unlike undenatured alcohol which is split by strength in other sub-headings.