HS 846233 Numerically controlled shearing machines

Quick Answer: Numerically controlled shearing machines imported under HS 846233 enter the UK duty-free at 0.00%, the EU at 2.70% ad valorem, and the US with a Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate of 4.4% ad valorem, though preferential rates may apply for certain trading partners. This HS code specifically covers machines designed for cutting sheet metal or other materials, which are guided by computer programming (numerical control) to perform precise operations. Importers should be aware of potential variations in duty rates based on the origin of the goods, especially when trading with the US. CustomTariffs aggregates this tariff data, providing a valuable resource for compliance planning.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
8462330000 0.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
8462330000 2.70 % — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
84623300 4.4% Free (17 programs) —
8462330080 — — ["No."]
8462330040 — — ["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 8462.33?

Imports of Numerically controlled shearing 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, 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?

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What products does HS 846233 cover?

This subheading covers numerically controlled shearing machines, as defined by the World Customs Organization (WCO) Harmonized System (HS) Nomenclature. These machines are designed for cutting sheet metal or other materials with a high degree of precision, guided by computer programs. According to the US International Trade Commission (USITC) Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database, this classification applies to machines where the cutting action is automated and controlled by numerical data input, distinguishing them from manually operated shears.

What falls outside HS 846233?

The following products are excluded from HS 846233: manually operated shears, guillotine cutters not controlled by numerical systems, and machines primarily designed for other operations such as punching, bending, or stamping, even if they possess some cutting capability. For instance, a simple hand-held metal snip or a large industrial press brake with an integrated cutting function would likely be classified under different HS codes, as their primary function or control mechanism differs from that of a dedicated, numerically controlled shearing machine.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 846233?

A common error is misclassifying machines that have both shearing and other functions, such as punching or bending, without correctly identifying the primary function. General Interpretative Rule (GIR) 3(c) of the Harmonized System states that when goods are classifiable by reference to two or more headings, they shall be classified as last in numerical order among those which equally merit consideration. Importers may also incorrectly classify machines that are numerically controlled but not specifically designed for shearing operations, overlooking the precise wording of the heading.

How should importers classify products under HS 846233?

The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 846233 involves a thorough examination of the machine's specifications and operational capabilities. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the machine is indeed controlled by a numerical system and that its primary function is shearing. Consulting the official HS Explanatory Notes, the USITC HTS, or the EU TARIC database for specific product descriptions and examples is crucial. If uncertainty remains, obtaining a binding ruling from the relevant customs authority is recommended.

How is the duty calculated for products under HS 846233?

A numerically controlled hydraulic guillotine shear weighing 5,000 kg and declared at a customs value of $75,000 USD would attract a US duty of $5,625.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 7.5% ad valorem, applied to the declared value ($75,000 × 0.075 = $5,625.00). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) for HS code 846233.0000.

Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 846233?

Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 846233, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, qualifying machinery originating from Canada or Mexico can enter the United States duty-free. To claim this preference, a valid USMCA country of origin certification is required. For imports into the European Union, the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) with Canada may offer reduced or zero duties on qualifying goods, requiring a proof of origin document.

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Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 846223 HS 846232 HS 846225 HS 846242 HS 846224 HS 846226

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 846233, 'Numerically controlled shearing machines'?

The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 846233 is typically 2.70% ad valorem. However, preferential duty rates can significantly reduce or eliminate this. For example, under certain trade agreements, the duty rate may be Free (0.00%) for imports from countries like Australia (AU), Canada (CA), South Korea (KR), or Singapore (SG), subject to specific rules of origin. Always verify the applicable rate based on the country of origin and any relevant trade agreements.

How is the duty calculated for a numerically controlled shearing machine classified under HS 846233?

The duty for HS code 846233 is generally calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared value of the goods. For instance, if a numerically controlled shearing machine is valued at $50,000 USD and the MFN duty rate is 2.70%, the import duty would be $50,000 USD * 0.0270 = $1,350 USD. If a specific duty applies (e.g., per unit), the calculation would be rate per unit × number of units.

What are the key classification criteria to ensure a machine is correctly classified under HS 846233?

To be classified under HS 846233, a machine must primarily be designed for shearing metal and must be equipped with a numerical control (NC) system. This NC system allows for automated control of the machine's movements and functions based on programmed instructions. Machines that are manually operated or lack sophisticated numerical control would typically fall under different HS codes within Chapter 84.

What documentation is typically required for importing numerically controlled shearing machines (HS 846233)?

Standard import documentation for HS 846233 includes a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Depending on the country of origin and destination, a certificate of origin may be required to claim preferential duty rates. Importers should also be prepared to provide technical specifications or brochures that detail the machine's numerical control capabilities to substantiate the HS classification.

Which major trade agreements commonly offer preferential duty rates for HS code 846233?

Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for HS code 846233. For example, the United States has agreements like the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement) which may offer reduced or zero duties for goods originating from Canada or Mexico. The EU's trade agreements with various countries (often reflected in TARIC codes) and the UK's Global Tariff (UKGT) also list preferential rates for specific origins. It is crucial to consult the relevant customs authority's tariff database (e.g., USITC, EU TARIC, UK Trade Tariff) for the specific origin country to determine eligibility and the exact preferential rate.