HS 846593 Grinding, sanding or polishing machines
Quick Answer: Grinding, sanding, or polishing machines imported under HS 846593 enter the UK at 2.00%, the EU at 2.70%, and the US at a variable rate, with the Most Favored Nation (MFN) rate being 3% for many, but duty-free for imports from numerous Free Trade Agreement partners. This HS code encompasses a range of machinery designed for surface finishing, including belt sanders, orbital sanders, disc sanders, and polishing machines, typically used in woodworking, metalworking, and automotive repair. Importers should consult specific Free Trade Agreements for potential duty-free entry into the US. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of verifying the origin of goods for accurate duty assessment.
What Are the Import Duty Rates?
🇬🇧 United Kingdom
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8465930000 | 2.00 % | — | — |
🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8465930000 | 2.70 % | — | — |
🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)
| Code | MFN | Preferential | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8465930004 | — | — | ["No."] |
| 8465930030 | — | — | ["No."] |
| 8465930055 | — | — | ["No."] |
| 8465930075 | — | — | ["No."] |
| 84659300 | 3% | Free (18 programs) | — |
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 8465.93?
Imports of Grinding, sanding or polishing 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 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 846593 cover?
This subheading covers machines for grinding, sanding, or polishing, designed for working wood, cork, bone, hard rubber, hard plastics, or similar hard materials. According to the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature, this category includes machines that use abrasive materials to smooth, shape, or finish surfaces. Official definitions from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that this includes stationary or portable machines equipped with abrasive belts, discs, or pads for these specific operations.
What falls outside HS 846593?
The following products are excluded from HS 846593: machines primarily designed for other operations, such as cutting (e.g., saws), drilling, or planing, even if they incorporate a sanding or polishing function as a secondary feature. Machines for working soft materials like textiles or leather, or those exclusively for metalworking (which fall under different headings), are also excluded. For instance, a metal polishing machine would be classified elsewhere, and a woodworking machine with an integrated dust collection system that is its primary function would also be excluded.
What are common classification mistakes for HS 846593?
A common error is misclassifying machines that perform multiple functions. According to General Rule of Interpretation (GRI) 3, if goods are classifiable by two or more headings, they shall be classified as if they comprised the material or component which gives them their essential character. Importers may incorrectly classify a combination machine solely based on its sanding capability when its essential character is derived from another primary function, such as cutting or shaping, which would place it in a different heading under Chapter 84.
How should importers classify products under HS 846593?
The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 846593 involves a thorough examination of the machine's primary function and design. Importers and customs brokers must consult the WCO HS Explanatory Notes and the specific tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff. Key considerations include the type of material the machine is designed to work, the abrasive medium used, and the specific operation performed (grinding, sanding, or polishing) to ensure accurate classification.
How is the duty calculated for products under HS 846593?
A 150W random orbital sander weighing 1.5 kg and declared at a customs value of $50.00 USD would attract a US duty of $3.50. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 2.3% ad valorem, applied to the declared customs value. The calculation is: 2.3% of $50.00 = $1.15. However, if the MFN duty rate were 3.5% for a similar item, the duty would be $1.75 (3.5% of $50.00). The specific rate is published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule.
Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 846593?
Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 846593, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, eligible sanding machines originating from Canada or Mexico can enter the United States duty-free. To claim this preference, a valid USMCA certification of origin is required. Additionally, the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) may offer reduced or duty-free entry for eligible products from certain developing countries, 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 846593 (Grinding, sanding or polishing machines)?
The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 846593 can vary. For example, under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule, the MFN rate is often around 2.00% ad valorem. However, preferential rates are available for goods originating from countries with trade agreements. For instance, rates can be Free (0%) for imports from countries like Australia (AU), Japan (JP), or South Korea (KR), and specific rates like 2.70% or 3% may apply from other trading partners. It is crucial to consult the relevant tariff schedule (e.g., USITC, EU TARIC, UK Trade Tariff) for the specific rate applicable to your country of origin and destination.
How is the import duty for a grinding machine under HS 846593 calculated?
Import duty for HS 846593 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the goods. For example, if a grinding machine is valued at $10,000 USD and the applicable MFN duty rate is 2.00%, the import duty would be $10,000 USD * 0.02 = $200 USD. If a specific duty component is also present (e.g., per unit), it would be added to the ad valorem amount. Always verify the exact calculation method and any potential additional duties or taxes with the customs authority.
What are the key classification criteria for machines under HS code 846593?
HS code 846593 covers machines for working wood, cork, bone, hard rubber, hard plastics or similar hard materials by grinding, sanding, or polishing. The primary classification criterion is the specific function of the machine. It must perform grinding, sanding, or polishing operations. Machines that perform other operations, such as cutting, drilling, or shaping (unless these are ancillary to the primary grinding/sanding/polishing function), would likely fall under different HS codes within Chapter 84. The material being worked is also important; these machines are generally intended for hard materials.
Which trade agreements commonly offer preferential duty rates for HS 846593?
Several trade agreements can provide preferential duty rates for machines classified under HS 846593. For example, the United States has agreements with countries like South Korea (KORUS FTA), Australia (AUSFTA), and others, which may offer reduced or zero duty rates. The European Union's TARIC system details preferential rates under agreements with various countries and blocs. Similarly, the UK Trade Tariff reflects rates under its global free trade agreements. Importers should verify the specific preferential rates and rules of origin requirements applicable under agreements such as the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), USMCA, or bilateral agreements relevant to their import/export activities.
What documentation is typically required when importing grinding, sanding, or polishing machines under HS 846593?
When importing machines under HS code 846593, standard import documentation is required, including a commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading or air waybill. Additionally, a certificate of origin is crucial, especially if claiming preferential duty rates under a trade agreement. Depending on the country of import and the specific machine, safety certifications, technical specifications, and declarations of conformity might be necessary to ensure compliance with local import regulations and standards. It is advisable to consult with a customs broker or the importing country's customs authority for a comprehensive list of required documents.