HS Code 84.58 – Lathes for removing metal

HS code 8458 is a 4-digit heading in the Harmonized System that covers: Lathes for removing metal. Heading 8458 specifically covers lathes for removing metal, a fundamental category of machine-tools essential for shaping cylindrical workpieces. This encompasses a wide range of turning machines, from traditional manual engine lathes used for general-purpose machining and repair work, to highly sophisticated Computer Numerical Control (CNC) lathes and turning centers. The scope includes various configurations such as horizontal and vertical lathes, turret and capstan lathes for repetitive operations, automatic lathes (like Swiss-type lathes) for small, precise parts, and multi-spindle automatic lathes for high-volume production. The defining characteristic is their primary function: rotating a workpiece against a cutting tool to remove material, typically to create cylindrical, conical, or spherical shapes. It strictly excludes other metal-removing machines like milling machines or machining centers, and machines for metal forming. This classification is critical for trade compliance due to the widespread use of lathes across industries, influencing tariffs, import duties, and technical standards. Historically, the lathe is one of the oldest machine tools, continuously evolving to meet modern manufacturing demands for precision and automation. As part of Section XVI, Chapter 84, this heading represents a core mechanical appliance for chip-making processes in metalworking.

Manual engine lathes, CNC lathes, turret lathes, capstan lathes, automatic lathes, Swiss-type lathes, multi-spindle automatic lathes, vertical turning lathes (VTL), horizontal turning lathes, toolroom lathes, bench lathes, precision lathes, gap bed lathes, hollow spindle lathes, CNC turning centers (single-spindle), multi-axis CNC lathes, sliding headstock lathes, fixed headstock lathes, chucking lathes, bar-fed automatic lathes, copy lathes, semi-automatic lathes, oil country lathes, teach-in lathes, CNC turning and milling centers (where turning is primary function).

A frequent misclassification involves confusing 8458 with 8457 (Machining centers, unit construction machines...), especially for advanced CNC turning centers with milling capabilities. The distinction lies in the primary function: if turning cylindrical parts is the main purpose, it's 8458. Machining centers (8457) are designed for comprehensive, multi-face machining, often with milling as a core capability. Another common error is with 8459 (Machine-tools for drilling, boring, milling...), which covers other chip-making machines *other than* lathes. Parts and accessories for lathes, such as chucks or tool holders, should be classified under 8466, not 8458.

In 2025, the top exporters of HS code 8458 in UN Comtrade data were Japan ($1.3B, 21% of world exports), South Korea ($836M) and China ($792M). World exports came to about $6.2B, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.

In 2025, the top importers of HS code 8458 in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($1.1B, 18% of world imports), Germany ($480M) and China ($403M). World imports came to about $6.0B, adding countries' reported figures and partner-based estimates for those that did not report (UN Comtrade data). Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.

HS code 8458 is a 4-digit heading under Chapter 84 of the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (84) identify the chapter, and digits 3-4 (58) specify the heading. This code contains multiple 6-digit subheadings for precise product classification.