HS 845612 Operated by other light or photon beam processes
Quick Answer: Machines and apparatus for working materials by laser or other light or photon beam processes enter the UK at 0.00% or 4.00%, the EU at 0.00% or 4.50%, and the US at 3.5% or free for certain trade agreements, with a general rate of 30%. This classification covers equipment such as laser cutting machines, laser engraving machines, and laser welding machines that utilize light beams to modify materials. Importers should verify specific subheadings within HS 8456.12 for precise duty rates and potential preferential treatment. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of detailed product descriptions for accurate classification and duty assessment.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8456120000 | — | — | — |
| 8456121000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8456129000 | 4.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8456120000 | — | — | — |
| 8456121000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
| 8456129000 | 4.50 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8456121050 | — | — | ["No."] |
| 84561210 | 3.5% | Free (17 programs) | — |
| 8456121010 | — | — | ["No."] |
| 845612 | — | — | — |
| 8456129000 | 2.4% | 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 8456.12?
Imports of Operated by other light or photon beam processes 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, GSP, 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 to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 845612 cover?
This subheading covers machines and apparatus for the working of materials by laser or other light or photon beam processes, excluding those for cutting, punching, or perforating. According to the WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes and official definitions from the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database, this category includes machines that utilize light beams for operations such as welding, marking, engraving, surface treatment, and additive manufacturing (3D printing) where the primary mechanism is the application of light energy to alter the material's structure or form, but not solely for creating holes or perforations.
What falls outside HS 845612?
The following products are excluded from HS 845612: machines that primarily operate by other light or photon beam processes for cutting, punching, or perforating materials, which are classified under HS 845611. Additionally, machines that use other energy sources, such as plasma, electron beams, or ion beams, are classified elsewhere. For instance, laser engraving machines that also perform cutting operations might be classified under HS 845611 if cutting is a primary function, and machines for surface treatment using abrasive blasting are not covered.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 845612?
A common error is misinterpreting the primary function of the machine, especially when a machine can perform multiple operations. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3(b) of the Harmonized System, when goods are classifiable by reference to two or more headings, the heading which provides the most specific description shall be preferred. If this is not possible, classification is determined by the component which gives them their essential character. Importers may incorrectly classify machines that primarily cut or punch under this subheading if they also have a secondary marking or engraving function.
How should importers classify products under HS 845612?
The correct procedure for classifying machines under HS 845612 involves a thorough examination of the machine's operational principle and its primary intended use. Importers and customs brokers must consult the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, and review the Explanatory Notes from the WCO. It is crucial to determine if the machine exclusively or primarily uses light or photon beams for material working processes other than cutting, punching, or perforating, and to verify that no other heading provides a more specific description.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 845612?
A laser marking machine for metal components, declared at a customs value of $15,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $1,050. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 7.0% ad valorem, as published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 845612. The calculation is: 7.0% × $15,000 = $1,050. This rate applies to goods imported from countries not benefiting from preferential trade agreements.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 845612?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 845612, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for qualifying goods originating from Canada or Mexico. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or Free duty rates for eligible goods from designated developing countries. To claim these preferences, importers typically require a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries, depending on the specific requirements of the importing jurisdiction.
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 845612, 'Machine tools for working any material by laser or other light or photon beam processes', in major markets like the US, EU, and UK?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rates for HS code 845612 can vary by market. For example, in the United States, the rate is often 0.00%. In the European Union, under the TARIC system, the rate is typically 4.00%. The UK Trade Tariff also lists a standard rate, often around 4.50%. It is crucial to consult the specific tariff schedule of the importing country at the time of importation, as rates can change and may be subject to specific end-use provisions or trade agreements.
How is HS code 845612 defined, and what distinguishes it from other machine tools?
HS code 845612 specifically covers machine tools that utilize laser or other light or photon beam processes to work any material. This distinguishes them from machines using other methods like plasma, water jets, or mechanical tools. The key classification criterion is the energy source and method of material removal – it must be a light or photon beam. Examples include laser cutting machines, laser engraving machines, and laser welding machines that operate on metals, plastics, textiles, wood, or other materials.
What documentation is typically required when importing goods classified under HS code 845612?
When importing machinery classified under HS code 845612, standard import documentation is generally required. This includes a commercial invoice detailing the value, quantity, and description of the goods; a packing list; a bill of lading or air waybill; and a certificate of origin if preferential duty rates are claimed. Depending on the importing country and the specific machine, additional documentation such as safety certifications, technical specifications, or import licenses might be necessary. Always verify the specific requirements with the customs authority of the destination country.
Which trade agreements commonly offer preferential duty rates for HS code 845612, and how can importers benefit?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for HS code 845612. For instance, agreements like the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), or various EU Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) may offer reduced or zero duties. To benefit, importers must ensure the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the relevant trade agreement and possess a valid Certificate of Origin or proof of origin. For example, if a machine classified under 845612 originates from a country with an FTA with the EU, and the applicable preferential rate is 0.00%, the importer would pay no duty upon presentation of the correct documentation.
Can you provide a numerical example of how import duty is calculated for HS code 845612?
Certainly. Let's assume a shipment of laser cutting machines classified under HS code 845612 is imported into the EU. The MFN duty rate is 4.00% ad valorem. If the declared customs value of the shipment is €100,000, the import duty would be calculated as follows: Duty = Customs Value × Duty Rate. Duty = €100,000 × 4.00% = €4,000. In this scenario, the importer would be liable for €4,000 in import duties. If a preferential rate under an FTA was applicable and resulted in a 0.00% duty, the duty amount would be €0.