HS 845650 Water-jet cutting machines
Quick Answer: Water-jet cutting machines imported under HS 845650 enter the UK at 0.00%, the EU at 1.70%, and the US at 2.5% (MFN). This HS code specifically covers machines that use a high-pressure jet of water, often mixed with abrasive material, to cut various materials such as metal, stone, and composites. Importers should be aware of potential preferential duty rates available in the US for specific trading partners. CustomTariffs aggregates this information, highlighting the varying tariff landscapes for this machinery across major markets, which is crucial for accurate customs declarations and duty calculations.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8456500000 | 0.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8456500000 | 1.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8456500000 | 2.5% | 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 8456.50?
Imports of Water-jet cutting machines 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 Has Trade Volume Developed?
Trade Volume 2023
How to Classify This HS Code?
What products does HS 845650 cover?
This subheading covers machines which operate by means of a high-pressure jet of water, sometimes mixed with abrasive particles, to cut materials. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Explanatory Notes, these machines are primarily used for cutting a wide range of materials including metals, stone, glass, and composites. Official definitions from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC system confirm that this category includes machines specifically designed for water-jet cutting, often incorporating advanced CNC controls for precision.
What falls outside HS 845650?
The following products are excluded from HS 845650: machines that use a jet of liquid for cleaning, spraying, or other non-cutting functions, such as high-pressure washers. Also excluded are machines that cut using other methods, like laser cutting machines (HS 845610) or plasma cutting machines (HS 845630). For instance, a simple water pump used for irrigation or a sandblasting machine, even if it uses a pressurized stream, would not be classified under this water-jet cutting subheading.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 845650?
A common error is misclassifying machines that use a liquid jet for purposes other than cutting. For example, high-pressure cleaning equipment, which operates on a similar principle of pressurized fluid, is typically classified under heading 8424. Furthermore, confusion can arise with machines that incorporate water-jet cutting as a secondary function, where the primary function dictates the classification according to General Interpretative Rule 3(b) of the Harmonized System.
How should importers classify products under HS 845650?
The correct procedure for classifying machines under HS 845650 involves a thorough examination of the machine's primary function and operating principle. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the machine utilizes a high-pressure water jet, with or without abrasives, for the purpose of cutting materials. Consulting the official tariff schedule of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the EU TARIC, and reviewing the Explanatory Notes from the WCO are crucial steps to ensure accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 845650?
A Bystronic ByCut 3015 water-jet cutting machine, weighing 7,500 kg and declared at a customs value of $150,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $7,500. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 5.0% ad valorem, as published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for subheading 8456.50.0000 (5.0% × $150,000 = $7,500).
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 845650?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 845650, 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 eligible goods from certain 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 agreement and importing jurisdiction's requirements.
```Which HS Codes Are Related?
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FAQ
What are the typical import duty rates for HS code 8456.50 (Water-jet cutting machines)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 8456.50 is typically 1.70% ad valorem. However, preferential duty rates may apply under various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs). For example, under the US-Australia FTA, the duty rate is Free. Importers should always verify the specific rate applicable to their country of origin and the relevant trade agreement. Consult the US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule for the most current MFN rates and the specific provisions of any applicable FTAs.
How is the duty for a water-jet cutting machine (HS 8456.50) calculated?
The duty for HS code 8456.50 is generally calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the imported goods. For instance, if a water-jet cutting machine is valued at $50,000 USD and the applicable MFN duty rate is 1.70%, the import duty would be calculated as: $50,000 (Value) × 0.0170 (Duty Rate) = $850.00 USD. This calculation assumes no other duties, taxes, or fees apply. Always confirm the correct valuation method and any additional charges with customs authorities.
What specific criteria define a 'water-jet cutting machine' for HS classification under 8456.50?
HS code 8456.50 specifically covers 'machine tools for working any material by laser or light, ultrasonic, plasma, ionic beam, or water jet processes.' For water-jet cutting machines, the key defining characteristic is the use of a high-pressure water jet, often mixed with an abrasive substance, to cut through various materials. The machine must be designed for this primary function. Machines that use water jets for cleaning or other purposes would not be classified under this code. Refer to the Explanatory Notes of the Harmonized System (WCO) for detailed classification guidance.
What documentation is typically required when importing water-jet cutting machines under HS 8456.50?
When importing water-jet cutting machines (HS 8456.50), standard import documentation is required, including a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the country of origin and destination, additional documentation may be necessary. This could include a certificate of origin to claim preferential duty rates under FTAs, and potentially technical specifications or manuals to verify the machine's functionality and confirm its classification. It is advisable for importers and customs brokers to consult the specific import regulations of the destination country and the relevant trade agreements.
Which common trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for water-jet cutting machines (HS 8456.50)?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for HS code 8456.50. For example, under the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement), qualifying goods may receive duty-free treatment. Similarly, agreements like the EU's Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP) or specific bilateral FTAs with countries such as South Korea or Singapore can offer reduced or zero duty rates. Importers must ensure the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the respective trade agreement to benefit from these preferential rates. Checking the EU TARIC database or the UK Trade Tariff, depending on the import destination, can provide specific details on preferential rates.