HS 847740 Vacuum-moulding machines and other thermoforming machines

Quick Answer: Vacuum-moulding machines and other thermoforming machines imported under HS 847740 enter the UK duty-free, the EU at 1.70% ad valorem, and the US at rates varying from 3.1% to 35% ad valorem, with duty-free entry for certain preferential trade partners. This classification covers machinery that uses vacuum or heat to shape plastic materials into desired forms, often for packaging, automotive parts, or consumer goods. Importers should consult specific preferential trade agreements for the US to determine eligibility for lower duty rates. CustomTariffs aggregates this data, highlighting the importance of verifying the applicable duty based on the country of import and origin.

What Are the Import Duty Rates?

🇬🇧 United Kingdom

Code MFN Preferential Unit
8477400000 0.00 % — —

🇪🇺 European Union (TARIC)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
8477400000 1.70 % — —

🇺🇸 United States (HTSUS)

Code MFN Preferential Unit
8477400100 3.1% 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 8477.40?

Imports of Vacuum-moulding machines and other thermoforming 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 to Classify This HS Code?

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What products does HS 847740 cover?

This subheading covers vacuum-moulding machines and other thermoforming machines designed for shaping plastics or other materials using heat and vacuum or pressure. According to the WCO Harmonized System Explanatory Notes, these machines are characterized by their ability to heat a sheet or preform of material and then draw it into or over a mold using vacuum or pressure. The USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU TARIC database confirm this scope, encompassing machinery for producing items like blister packs, plastic packaging, and molded plastic components through these processes.

What falls outside HS 847740?

The following products are excluded from HS 847740: machines that primarily use injection moulding (classified under 8477.10), blow moulding (classified under 8477.30), or compression moulding techniques. Machines that are solely for cutting or finishing thermoformed products, or those that combine thermoforming with other distinct processes not integral to the thermoforming itself, are also excluded. For instance, simple plastic sheet cutters or machines primarily for welding plastic sheets would be classified elsewhere.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 847740?

A common error is misclassifying machines that perform multiple functions, particularly if thermoforming is not the primary or most defining operation. General Interpretative Rule 3(c) of the Harmonized System, which states that goods should be classified according to the essential character, is often overlooked. Importers may mistakenly classify machines that combine thermoforming with significant secondary operations, such as extensive printing or assembly, under this subheading when a more specific heading might apply to the combined functionality.

How should importers classify products under HS 847740?

The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 847740 involves a thorough examination of the machine's primary function and operational principle. Importers and customs brokers must consult the WCO HS Nomenclature, relevant national tariff schedules (e.g., USITC HTS, EU TARIC, UK Trade Tariff), and any applicable Explanatory Notes. Key considerations include whether the machine uses vacuum or pressure to form heated plastic sheets or preforms into a mold, and if this is its principal purpose.

How is the duty calculated for products under HS 847740?

A vacuum-forming machine for producing plastic packaging, weighing 500 kg and declared at a customs value of $15,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $1,050.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 7.0% ad valorem, applied to the declared value ($15,000 USD × 0.07 = $1,050.00). This calculation is based on the MFN rate published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for HS code 8477.40.0000.

Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 847740?

Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 847740, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, qualifying originating machines from Canada or Mexico can enter the US duty-free. Documentation required to claim this preference typically includes a USMCA certification of origin. While not as broadly applicable to this specific machinery, other agreements might offer reduced rates for specific originating countries, contingent on meeting strict rules of origin.

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Which HS Codes Are Related?

HS 847730 HS 847710 HS 847751 HS 847720 HS 847780 HS 844140

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 847740 (Vacuum-moulding machines and other thermoforming machines)?

The Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate for HS code 847740 in the United States is 3.1% ad valorem. However, preferential duty rates may apply under various Free Trade Agreements (FTAs). For example, goods originating from Australia (AU) may enter duty-free. It is crucial to consult the latest USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for the most current rates applicable to your specific origin country.

How is the import duty for HS 847740 calculated, and can you provide an example?

The duty for HS 847740 is typically calculated on an ad valorem basis, meaning it's a percentage of the declared customs value of the imported goods. For instance, if a vacuum-moulding machine is valued at $10,000 USD and the applicable MFN duty rate is 3.1%, the import duty would be $10,000 * 0.031 = $310 USD. Always ensure your customs value is accurately declared according to the WTO Valuation Agreement.

What are the key classification criteria to ensure a machine falls under HS code 847740?

HS code 847740 specifically covers 'Vacuum-moulding machines and other thermoforming machines'. The primary criterion is the machine's function: it must use vacuum or pressure (or both) to shape heated plastic materials into a desired form, often by drawing the material over or into a mold. Machines that primarily use other forming methods, such as injection moulding (HS 8477.10) or compression moulding (HS 8477.80), would be classified elsewhere.

Which trade agreements offer preferential duty rates for HS 847740 imports into the US, and what documentation is needed?

Several trade agreements provide preferential duty rates for HS 847740. Examples include agreements with countries like Australia (AU), Chile (CL), and South Korea (KR), where duty rates can be as low as Free. To claim preferential treatment, importers must provide a valid Certificate of Origin (COO) or a declaration of origin from the exporter, demonstrating that the goods meet the rules of origin stipulated in the relevant trade agreement. Consult the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule for a comprehensive list of applicable agreements and their specific requirements.

Are there any specific documentation requirements beyond the commercial invoice and bill of lading for importing machines classified under HS 847740?

While a commercial invoice, bill of lading, and packing list are standard, for HS code 847740, it is highly recommended to have detailed technical specifications and brochures from the manufacturer. These documents help customs officials verify that the machine's functionality aligns with the description of vacuum-moulding or thermoforming. If claiming preferential duty rates, a Certificate of Origin is mandatory. In some cases, especially for new or complex machinery, a manufacturer's affidavit confirming the machine's capabilities might be beneficial.