CNC Lathe Machine
CN β US| HS Code | Tariff Rate | Origin | Destination | Doc |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8459610080 | 39.2% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 8459210080 | 39.2% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 8458110030 | 39.4% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 8457100015 | 39.2% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 8457200010 | 38.3% | CN | US | Official Doc |
| 8458190090 | 39.4% | CN | US | Official Doc |
Product Images
AI Analysis
π CNC Lathe Machine (Computer Numerical Control Turning Center)
π HS Code Reference & Customs Clearance Guide | 2026 Latest Tariff Analysis | Professional Clearance Strategy
CNC Lathes are the backbone of modern precision manufacturing, used for turning, threading, and facing metal parts. Unlike CNC milling centers (which cut from the side/top), lathes rotate the workpiece. However, due to the complexity of modern multi-axis machines, classification can be tricky. Below is the authoritative breakdown based on the provided data for imports into the US from China.
β οΈ Critical Distinction:
- 8458 Series: Specifically for Lathes (turning).
- 8459/8457 Series: For Milling Machines or Processing Centers.
- Confusion Alert: Many "CNC Lathes" with live tooling are reclassified as Milling Machines (8459) or Processing Centers (8457) by customs if they perform complex milling operations simultaneously.
π¦ II. HS Code Classification Details (2026 Latest Tariff Data)
Based on the provided data, here are the 6 potential classifications. Note that while the summary calls them all "CNC Lathe," the HS codes actually span Lathes and Milling Machines/Processing Centers.
| HS Code | Product Description & Logic | Total Tax Rate | Tax Breakdown |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8458.11.00.30 | CNC Lathe β’ CNC lathes, single spindle, horizontal type. β’ Logic: Matches CNC use, but power/horizontal form not fully detailed. No material conflict. |
39.4% | Base: 4.4% Sec. 301: 25.0% Section 122: 10% |
| 8458.19.00.90 | CNC Lathe (Other) β’ Other metal-cutting lathes. β’ Logic: Generic metal cutting lathe. No specific specs given. "Possible Fit." |
39.4% | Base: 4.4% Sec. 301: 25.0% Section 122: 10% |
| 8457.20.00.10 | CNC Processing Center β’ Unit construction machines for metal. β’ Logic: Highest Match for Multi-Function. CNC use & unit construction match perfectly. Often used for lathes with milling capability. |
38.3% | Base: 3.3% Sec. 301: 25.0% Section 122: 10% |
| 8459.61.00.80 | CNC Milling Machine β’ CNC metal milling machines. β’ Logic: CNC use matches. "Catch-all" category if not strictly a lathe. No material/conflict issues. |
39.2% | Base: 4.2% Sec. 301: 25.0% Section 122: 10% |
| 8459.21.00.80 | CNC Milling Machine β’ Other CNC milling machines. β’ Logic: CNC use matches. Other category. No material/form conflict. |
39.2% | Base: 4.2% Sec. 301: 25.0% Section 122: 10% |
| 8457.10.00.15 | Metal Processing Machine β’ Unit construction machines for metal. β’ Logic: Matches "Machining Center" attributes. No material/form conflict. |
39.2% | Base: 4.2% Sec. 301: 25.0% Section 122: 10% |
π Key Insight:
- 8458 is the traditional "Lathe" code.
- 8459 and 8457 are often applied to Turn-Mill Centers (machines that can both turn and mill). If your "CNC Lathe" has live tools or a Y-axis for milling, Customs will likely push it to 8459 or 8457.
- 8457.20.00.10 offers the lowest base tax (3.3%) but requires proving it is a "Unit Construction Machine" (highly integrated processing center).
π° III. 2026 Latest Tariff Rate Breakdown (Including Surcharges)
β Applicable Country: United States (US)
β Origin: China (CN)
β Effective Date: Current Trade Policies (2026 Context)
π― 1. The "Section 122" & "Section 301" Combo
For ALL HS codes listed above (8458, 8459, 8457), the tax structure is consistent due to US trade restrictions on Chinese machinery.
| Component | Rate | Source/Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Base Duty (MFN) | 3.3% - 4.4% | Standard Most Favored Nation duty for machinery. Varies slightly by sub-heading (8458 vs 8459). |
| Section 301 Tariff | +25.0% | The "Trade War" Tax. Applies to almost all Chinese industrial machinery. |
| Section 122 Tariff | +10.0% | The "New" Surcharge. Applied to specific categories of goods from China to address trade deficits/security. |
| TOTAL EFFECTIVE RATE | 38.3% - 39.4% | This is your landed cost multiplier. |
π Why the Difference? (38.3% vs 39.4%)
- 38.3% (8457.20.00.10): Has a lower base duty (3.3%).
- 39.4% (8458.11.00.30/8458.19.00.90): Has a higher base duty (4.4%).
- 39.2% (8459/8457.10): Middle ground base duty (4.2%).Strategy: If you can prove the machine is a "Unit Construction Machine" (Processing Center), 8457.20.00.10 saves you 1.1% on the base duty compared to pure lathes. Over a $100k shipment, thatβs $1,100 saved.
β οΈ De Minimis Exemption?
β NO.
These items are high-value industrial machinery. They cannot use the $800 de minimis rule. Full commercial entry and payment of all duties are required.
π οΈ IV. Customs Clearance Practical Advice (Pitfall Avoidance Guide)
β 1. Essential Documentation Checklist
| Document | Required? | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Commercial Invoice | β | Must clearly state: "CNC Lathe / Turning Center," Model, Serial #, Origin. |
| Packing List | β | Detail weight, dimensions, and accessories (tapers, chucks). |
| Product Specification Sheet | β | CRITICAL. Must list: Max swing diameter, max length, spindle power, number of axes, and whether it includes milling tools. |
| Technical Diagrams | β | To prove if it is a "Lathe" (8458) or a "Processing Center" (8457/8459). |
| Certifications | β | CE, UL, ANSI/BMAA standards (for safety compliance). |
| Country of Origin Cert | β | Proves manufacture in China (triggering 301/122 tariffs). |
β 2. Classification Strategy: Lathe vs. Mill?
| Scenario | Recommended HS Code | Why? | Risk |
|---|---|---|---|
| Simple CNC Lathe (Only turns/threads) |
8458.11.00.30 | Pure turning function. | Low. Standard classification. |
| Turn-Mill Center (Has live tooling, Y-axis, sub-spindle) |
8457.20.00.10 or 8459.61.00.80 | Performs milling operations. Classified as "Processing Center" or "Milling Machine." | Medium. Need to justify why it's not a simple lathe. |
| 5-Axis Machining Center (Can mill complex parts) |
8457.10.00.15 or 8459.21.00.80 | Clearly a milling/processing unit. | Low if specs show milling dominance. |
π₯ Pro Tip:
If your machine can mill (even lightly), do NOT classify as8458(Lathe). Customs may reclassify it to8459or8457, potentially causing delays. If8457.20.00.10is eligible, it offers the best rate.
β 3. Common Mistakes & Penalties
β Mistake 1: Calling a "Turn-Mill Center" a "Lathe"
π Result: Customs may reject 8458, reclassify to 8459/8457, and audit past shipments.
β Mistake 2: Ignoring Section 122 Tariff
π Result: Underpayment of 10%. 10% penalty + interest + potential seizure.
β Mistake 3: Vague Description ("CNC Machine")
π Result: Customs examiner assigns wrong code. If wrong code has lower tax, you get fraud allegations. If higher tax, you pay back duties.
π V. Global Market Comparison (2026)
| Market | Recommended HS | Base Rate | Surcharges (China) | Total Effective Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| πΊπΈ USA | 8458.11.00.30 |
4.4% | +35% (301+122) | ~39.4% | Highest barrier. |
| πͺπΊ EU | 8458.31.00 |
~2.5% | 0% (No Section 122) | ~2.5% | EU does not have Section 122. Much cheaper. |
| π¨π³ China | 8458.31.00 |
0-10% | 0% | Low | Domestic import incentives may apply. |
| π²π½ Mexico | 8458.31.00 |
~0-5% | 0% (USMCA) | Low | If manufactured in Mexico, tariff-free for US export. |
π Supply Chain Advice:
- For US Market: High tariffs make Chinese CNC Lathes expensive. Consider assembly in Mexico or Southeast Asia to avoid Section 301/122.
- For EU/Other: Tariffs are minimal. Focus on CE certification and quality.
π VI. Common Errors & Blood-Teaching Lessons
β Error 1: Assuming "CNC" means one HS Code.
π Lesson: CNC what? If it cuts metal by turning β 8458. If it cuts by milling β 8459/8457. Wrong classification = Audit.
β Error 2: Forgetting Section 122.
π Lesson: Even if you paid 301 (25%), you still owe 122 (10%). Total is 35%+. Budget accordingly.
β Error 3: Missing Technical Specs.
π Lesson: Customs needs to know if it's a "Processing Center" (8457) to get the lower base rate. Without specs, they guess high.
β Correct Description Example:
"CNC Turn-Mill Center, Horizontal, with Live Tooling, Y-Axis, 5-Axis Capability. Model XYZ. Origin: China."
π― VII. Conclusion: Optimize Your Clearance
π― Key Takeaway:
πΉ Pure Lathes:
8458(~39.4% total tax).
πΉ Multi-Function Centers:8457.20.00.10(~38.3% total tax) β Best Rate.
πΉ Always declare "CNC Turning/Milling" clearly.
πΉ Never underestimate the 35%+ surcharge from US trade policies.
π Action Plan:
1. Verify Function: Does it mill? If yes, aim for 8457.20.00.10.
2. Prepare Docs: Specs, Diagrams, Invoice.
3. Calculate Cost: Use 39.4% as the safe baseline for budgeting.
4. Consult Broker: For complex Turn-Mill centers, get an Advance Ruling from US CBP.
β¨ Professional Clearance Starts with Precise Classification!
πΌ Your Profit Margin Depends on Accurate HS Codes!
Customer Reviews
About HS Code Classification
The Harmonized System (HS) is an internationally standardized nomenclature developed by the World Customs Organization (WCO) to classify traded products. Over 200 countries use the HS system as the basis for customs tariffs, trade statistics, and import/export regulations.
Each HS code follows a hierarchical structure:
- Chapter (2 digits) β Broad category of goods (e.g., Chapter 84: Machinery and Mechanical Appliances)
- Heading (4 digits) β More specific grouping within the chapter
- Subheading (6 digits) β Internationally standardized breakdown, used by all WCO member countries
- National subdivisions (8-10 digits) β Country-specific extensions for further classification, such as US HTSUS 10-digit codes
Correct HS code classification is essential for smooth customs clearance, accurate duty payment, and compliance with trade regulations. Misclassification can lead to customs delays, overpayment of duties, or penalties.
When importing from CN to US, the applicable tariff rates may include:
- Most-Favored-Nation (MFN) rate β The standard duty rate applied to WTO members
- General rate β Applied to countries without trade agreements
- Trade remedy duties β Additional tariffs such as Section 301 (anti-dumping), Section 232 (national security), or countervailing duties
The information provided on this page is for reference purposes only. For official classification, please consult with your local customs authority or a licensed customs broker.