HS 844316 Flexographic printing machinery
Quick Answer: Flexographic printing machinery imported under HS 844316 enters the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 1.70%, and the US at 2.2% (MFN rate), with preferential rates available for certain trade partners. This code covers machines that use flexible relief plates to print, typically on packaging materials like paper, cardboard, plastic film, and textiles. Importers should be aware of potential anti-dumping duties or specific import licenses that may apply in certain jurisdictions, beyond the standard ad valorem rates. CustomTariffs aggregates this tariff information to assist trade professionals.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8443160000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8443160000 | 1.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8443160000 | 2.2% | Free (17 programs) | ["No."] |
Special rates available under trade agreements including USMCA, KORUS, GSP.
Duty rates sourced from the USITC (US International Trade Commission) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) (accessed 2/22/2026), EU TARIC – DG TAXUD (Directorate-General for Taxation and Customs Union) (accessed 2/22/2026), and UK Trade Tariff – HMRC (His Majesty's Revenue and Customs) (accessed 2/22/2026).
Data compiled and presented by HSRates.
Which Trade Agreements Reduce Duties for HS 8443.16?
Imports of Flexographic printing machinery may qualify for reduced or zero duty rates under free trade agreements and preferential programs. The overview below shows available preferential arrangements by jurisdiction, compiled by HSRates from official tariff and trade agreement data.
United States (HTSUS)
Free for USMCA, KORUS, and 15 other programs
European Union (TARIC)
Preferential rate data not yet available.
United Kingdom
Preferential rate data not yet available.
Preferential rates require proof of origin and may be subject to quotas or conditions. Always verify eligibility with a licensed customs broker.
Data compiled by HSRates.
Which Preferential Rates Apply to Your Origin Country?
Select an origin country to see if preferential rates apply.
Preferential rates based on available trade agreements. Actual rates may vary.
How Has Trade Volume Developed?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 844316 cover?
This subheading covers flexographic printing machinery, which are machines and apparatus used for printing by means of flexography. According to the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Explanatory Notes, these machines utilize flexible relief plates and quick-drying inks, typically for printing on packaging materials like paper, cardboard, plastic films, and textiles. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC database confirm this scope, encompassing machines designed for continuous roll-to-roll printing or sheet-fed operations.
What falls outside HS 844316?
The following products are excluded from HS 844316: printing machinery for other processes such as offset, gravure, letterpress, or screen printing are classified under different headings. For instance, offset printing presses fall under 844332, while screen printing machines are typically found in 844319. Furthermore, ancillary equipment not integral to the printing process itself, such as standalone finishing machines or separate ink mixing apparatus, would be classified based on their specific function and not under this heading.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 844316?
A common error is misclassifying machines that perform multiple printing processes. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(c), when goods are classifiable by two or more headings, the heading which occurs last in numerical order shall be considered. If a machine can perform both flexographic and offset printing, and it is not primarily designed for one over the other, it might be incorrectly classified under an earlier heading. Importers must carefully consider the primary function and design of the machinery.
How should importers classify products under HS 844316?
The correct procedure for classifying flexographic printing machinery involves a thorough examination of the machine's design, operational principles, and intended use. Importers and customs brokers should consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, and review the Explanatory Notes of the WCO. Identifying the specific printing technology employed (flexography) and ensuring the machine is designed for this purpose is paramount, referencing any provided technical specifications or product literature.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 844316?
A Bobst F&P 1000 flexographic printing press, weighing 15,000 kg and declared at a customs value of $250,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $12,500. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for heading 8443.16. The calculation is: 5.0% × $250,000 = $12,500. This rate is applicable if no preferential trade agreement benefits are claimed.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 844316?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 844316, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, qualifying flexographic printing machinery originating from Canada or Mexico can enter the United States duty-free. Documentation required to claim this preference typically includes a self-certified origin statement provided by the exporter. Other agreements, like those with developing countries under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), may also offer reduced rates, often requiring a GSP Form A.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 844316, "Flexographic printing machinery"?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 844316, "Flexographic printing machinery," is generally 1.70% ad valorem in the United States. However, preferential duty rates may apply under various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs). For example, under the US-Korea Free Trade Agreement (KORUS FTA), the duty rate is Free (0.00%). It is crucial to consult the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) or the relevant trade agreement text for the specific rate applicable to your import, as rates can change and depend on the country of origin.
How is the import duty for HS 844316 calculated, and can you provide an example?
The import duty for HS code 844316 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared value of the imported goods. For instance, if a flexographic printing machine is valued at $100,000 and the applicable MFN duty rate is 1.70%, the import duty would be calculated as follows: $100,000 (value) × 0.0170 (duty rate) = $1,700. This amount is payable to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Always ensure the declared value is the correct customs value, which typically includes the cost of the goods, insurance, and freight to the U.S. port of entry.
What are the key classification criteria for goods falling under HS code 844316?
HS code 844316 specifically covers 'Flexographic printing machinery.' The primary classification criterion is the printing method employed. Flexographic printing utilizes flexible relief plates (made of rubber or plastic) and fast-drying inks. Machinery classified under this code is designed for this specific printing process, often used for printing on packaging materials like plastic films, paper, and cardboard. It's important to distinguish this from other printing machinery covered in Chapter 84, such as offset printing (8441), gravure printing (844312), or screen printing (844319).
What documentation is typically required when importing flexographic printing machinery under HS 844316?
When importing flexographic printing machinery (HS 844316), standard import documentation is required. This includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods; a packing list; and a bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the country of origin and any claimed preferential duty rates, a Certificate of Origin may be necessary. Importers should also be prepared to provide technical specifications or brochures that confirm the machinery's flexographic printing capabilities. Compliance with any specific safety or environmental regulations of the importing country is also essential.
Which trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for flexographic printing machinery imported into the United States?
Several trade agreements provide preferential duty rates, often Free (0.00%), for flexographic printing machinery (HS 844316) when imported into the United States, provided the goods meet the rules of origin. Examples include agreements with countries like South Korea (KORUS FTA), Australia (AU), Chile (CL), and Singapore (SG). The specific list of countries offering preferential rates can be found in Chapter 98 of the HTSUS or by consulting the U.S. International Trade Commission (USITC) website. Importers must ensure they have the correct documentation, such as a valid Certificate of Origin, to claim these benefits.