HS Code 84.80 – Moulding boxes for metal foundry, moulding patterns, moulds for metals (excluding ingot moulds), metal carbides, glass, mineral materials, rubber or plastics

HS code 8480 is a 4-digit heading in the Harmonized System that covers: Moulding boxes for metal foundry, moulding patterns, moulds for metals (excluding ingot moulds), metal carbides, glass, mineral materials, rubber or plastics. Heading 8480 of the Harmonized System encompasses the crucial tools and apparatus used in manufacturing processes: moulding boxes for metal foundry, moulding patterns, and a wide array of moulds designed for shaping various materials. This classification is vital for international trade as it covers the foundational equipment that enables the mass production of countless goods, from automotive parts to plastic consumer products. The scope is broad, including moulds for metals (excluding ingot moulds, which typically fall under 8454 or 7325), metal carbides, glass, mineral materials, rubber, or plastics. Key sub-categories include injection moulds for plastics, die-casting moulds for metals, blow moulds for containers, compression moulds for rubber, and patterns for sand casting. This heading sits within Section XVI, focusing on machinery and mechanical appliances, highlighting these items as specialized industrial tools rather than finished products. Accurate classification is paramount for trade compliance, impacting duties, taxes, and regulatory requirements, especially given the high value and specialized nature of many moulds. Historically, the evolution of moulding technology has driven industrialization, making these items central to global manufacturing supply chains. Their precise classification prevents misdeclarations and ensures smooth customs clearance for industries relying on advanced manufacturing techniques.

Injection molds for plastics, die-casting molds for aluminum, blow molds for PET bottles, compression molds for rubber seals, sand casting patterns for engine blocks, permanent molds for metal casting, glass forming molds, ceramic injection molds, plastic extrusion dies, tire molds, footwear molds, dental impression trays (as patterns), investment casting patterns, lost-wax casting molds, foundry flasks, core boxes, stamping dies, thermoforming molds, bottle molds, preform molds, prototype molds, silicone molds for industrial use, forging dies.

Common misclassifications arise from confusing moulds with general tools (Chapter 82) or parts of specific machines (e.g., machine-tool accessories in 8466). Traders often err by classifying ingot moulds here, which are specifically excluded and typically fall under 8454 (for steel-making machinery) or 7325 (for cast iron articles). Another mistake is classifying simple parts of moulds or raw materials for mould making under 8480, rather than the complete mould or pattern. The key distinction lies in whether the item is a complete apparatus for shaping material, rather than a component or raw material.

In 2025, the top exporters of HS code 8480 in UN Comtrade data were China ($8.2B, 40% of world exports), Germany ($1.6B) and Italy ($1.2B). World exports came to about $20.6B, 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 8480 in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($2.4B, 12% of world imports), Mexico ($1.8B) and Germany ($1.4B). World imports came to about $20.0B, 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 8480 is a 4-digit heading under Chapter 84 of the Harmonized System. The first 2 digits (84) identify the chapter, and digits 3-4 (80) specify the heading. This code contains multiple 6-digit subheadings for precise product classification.