HS 845640 Operated by plasma arc processes

Quick Answer: Machines and apparatus for the working of materials by laser or light, electron or ion beams or by plasma arc processes, operated by plasma arc processes, enter the UK at 2.00%, the EU at 3.50%, and the US with rates varying from Free to 30% depending on origin. This HS code specifically covers machinery that utilizes plasma arc processes to cut, weld, or otherwise work materials. Importers should be aware of the significant duty rate variations across major markets, particularly the higher rates in the US for certain origins. CustomTariffs aggregates this information to assist in trade planning.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
8456400000 2.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
8456400000 3.50 % — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
8456401010 — — ["No."]
8456401090 — — ["No."]
84564010 3.5% Free (17 programs) —
845640 — — —
8456409000 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 8456.40?

Imports of Operated by plasma arc 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 14 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?

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What products does HS 845640 cover?

This subheading covers machines and apparatus for working materials by the action of plasma arc processes, as defined by the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System Nomenclature. This includes equipment specifically designed to utilize the high-temperature ionized gas (plasma) generated by an electric arc to cut, weld, surface treat, or otherwise modify materials. Official definitions from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that the key defining characteristic is the use of plasma arc technology for material processing.

What falls outside HS 845640?

The following products are excluded from HS 845640: machines operating by other thermal processes such as laser, electron beam, or water jet cutting; general welding or cutting apparatus not specifically employing plasma arc technology; and machines for surface treatment that do not utilize plasma arc. For instance, laser cutting machines for metals, classified under HS 845610, or general-purpose arc welding machines not utilizing plasma, would be classified elsewhere, typically in heading 8515.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 845640?

A common error is misclassifying machines that use plasma but not for material working, or conversely, machines that work materials using other thermal processes. For example, plasma torches used solely for lighting or heating, or machines that employ laser or water jet technology for cutting, are incorrectly placed here. Adherence to the Explanatory Notes of the WCO Harmonized System, particularly Section XVI, Note 1, is crucial to ensure correct classification based on the primary function and working principle.

How should importers classify products under HS 845640?

The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 845640 involves a detailed examination of the machine's operational principle and intended use. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the machine unequivocally uses plasma arc processes for material working, such as cutting or welding. Reviewing the manufacturer's specifications, technical manuals, and consulting official tariff databases like the USITC HTS or EU TARIC for specific product descriptions and ruling is essential for accurate declaration.

How is the duty calculated for products under HS 845640?

A plasma cutting machine for steel, declared at a customs value of $15,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $1,050 USD. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 7.0% ad valorem, as published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for HS 845640. The calculation is: $15,000 (declared value) × 0.07 (duty rate) = $1,050 (duty amount).

Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 845640?

Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 845640, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which can result in a duty rate of Free for qualifying originating goods from Canada and Mexico. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or Free duty rates for qualifying goods from certain developing countries. To claim these preferences, a self-certified origin statement for USMCA or a GSP Form A for GSP beneficiaries is typically required, depending on the specific jurisdiction and agreement.

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Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 845630 HS 845620 HS 845612 HS 845611 HS 845650 HS 848640

Not the right code? Search all HS codes to find the correct tariff classification.

FAQ

What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 845640 (machines and apparatus for working materials by plasma arc processes)?

The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for machines and apparatus operated by plasma arc processes (HS 845640) is generally 3.50% ad valorem. However, preferential duty rates are available for goods imported from countries with which the United States has trade agreements. For example, goods from Australia (AU), Canada (CA - under USMCA), Chile (CL), South Korea (KR), and Singapore (SG) may be eligible for free entry (0%). It is crucial to verify the specific preferential rate applicable to your country of origin and ensure you meet all eligibility requirements, including proper documentation.

How is the import duty for HS 845640 calculated? Can you provide an example?

The import duty for HS code 845640 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared value of the goods. For instance, if a plasma arc processing machine is valued at $10,000 and the MFN duty rate is 3.50%, the import duty would be $10,000 \times 0.035 = $350. If the duty were based on a combination of value and quantity (e.g., $10 per unit + 2% ad valorem), the calculation would be (Number of Units \times $10) + (Value of Goods \times 0.02). Always confirm the specific duty calculation basis with the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) or relevant customs authority.

What are the key classification criteria for goods to be classified under HS code 845640?

To be classified under HS code 845640, the machine or apparatus must be designed for working materials (such as metals, plastics, or textiles) using plasma arc processes. This involves generating a plasma jet or arc that is directed at the material to cut, weld, engrave, surface treat, or otherwise modify it. The primary function must be the material working operation driven by the plasma arc. Apparatus that merely use plasma for lighting or heating, or where plasma is a secondary function, would not be classified here.

What documentation is typically required for importing machines classified under HS 845640?

When importing machines classified under HS 845640, standard import documentation is required, including a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Additionally, depending on the country of origin and any claimed preferential duty rates, a Certificate of Origin may be necessary. It is also advisable to have technical documentation or specifications that clearly describe the machine's operation, particularly confirming that it utilizes plasma arc processes for material working, to support the HS classification. Some countries may also require safety certifications or declarations.

Which major trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS code 845640 into the US?

Several trade agreements provide preferential duty rates for HS code 845640 into the United States. Key agreements include the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which offers preferential treatment for goods originating from Canada and Mexico. Other agreements, such as those with Australia (AU), Chile (CL), South Korea (KR), and Singapore (SG), also typically provide for reduced or free entry for eligible goods under this classification. Importers must ensure the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in each respective trade agreement to qualify for these benefits.