The HS code for a lathe machine is in heading 8458, a rotavator is classified in the agricultural machinery heading 8432, and packaging machines are in 8422. The codes below are four-digit headings from the international system, so your country's tariff adds further digits that you should confirm with your broker.
Classification depends on what the machine does, how it is controlled and how it is supplied. Describe those points clearly on the invoice.
HS code for a lathe machine
Lathes for removing metal are in heading 8458. Subheadings separate horizontal lathes from others, and numerically controlled lathes from those with no numerical control. A CNC lathe and a conventional lathe are therefore often in different subheadings.
Machines with a numerical control, such as machining centres or vertical machines, may be in other headings, for example 8457 for machining centres. If the machine has several functions, the heading follows its principal function. Read conventional vs CNC lathes for how to describe the configuration.
HS code for a rotavator
A rotavator, or rotary tiller, is a soil preparation implement and falls in heading 8432 for agricultural, horticultural or forestry machinery for soil preparation or cultivation. The exact subheading in national tariffs depends on whether it is classed with harrows and cultivators or as another type.
Always state the working width, the number of blades and the tractor power needed on the invoice, since national tariffs sometimes split lines by these features. Tractor-mounted implements and self-propelled machines are treated differently: a tractor is in Chapter 87, and a rotavator supplied with a power unit may raise questions. Parts of agricultural machinery go in a parts subheading, and blades sold loose are classified by their own description. See what a rotavator is and what widths exist.
HS code for a packaging machine
Machinery for filling, closing, sealing, labelling or wrapping packages is in heading 8422, with the sub-division depending on the function. Filling and sealing machines for bags, bottles and boxes are covered, and so are some capsule and wrapping machines.
A machine that both makes and fills the pack, such as a vertical form-fill-seal machine, is classified by its main function. Printing, coding and inspection units that are built into the line are normally treated as part of it, while stand-alone units are not. Weighing or sorting equipment supplied with it may be classified separately if invoiced separately. Describe the machine's output clearly. See what a VFFS machine is.
What can change the code
Four things most often move a machine from one code to another.
- Whether the machine is controlled numerically or manually.
- Whether the goods are shipped complete, or as parts or kits for assembly.
- Whether accessories and attachments are invoiced with the machine or separately.
- The main function when the machine does more than one job.
Next step
Ask your broker to confirm the code from a brochure and specification before you place the order, and keep the same wording on every shipping document. Our guide to finding the HS code for a machine or part explains the process.
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