Product classification
HS code for CNC knee mill: 8459.51
Machine-tools, for milling by removing metal, knee-type, numerically controlled.
Classification of CNC knee mill under HS 8459.51
A CNC knee mill is precisely classified under Harmonized System (HS) code 8459.51, which specifically designates "Machine-tools; for milling by removing metal, knee-type, numerically controlled." This classification is determined by three fundamental characteristics. Firstly, its core function is milling, a subtractive manufacturing process that uses rotating multi-point cutters to remove material from a workpiece. Secondly, the machine features a distinctive "knee-type" construction, where the worktable is supported by a vertically adjustable knee, providing a robust and versatile platform for machining operations. Thirdly, and critically, it incorporates "numerically controlled" (CNC) technology, enabling automated, high-precision movements and operations based on pre-programmed instructions. This combination of milling capability, knee-type architecture, and advanced numerical control collectively places it within this specific HS subheading, differentiating it from other metalworking machinery.
- Covers
- Vertical CNC knee mills
- Horizontal CNC knee mills (specifically those with a knee mechanism)
- Universal CNC knee mills
- CNC turret mills featuring a knee for vertical table adjustment
- Compact CNC knee mills for precision workshops
- Also under 8459.51
- Haas TM series
- Tormach PCNC series
- Hurco VM series (some knee-type variants)
- Kent USA KVR series
- Fryer MB series
Codes often confused with 8459.51
Common mistake. Misclassification often arises when distinguishing CNC knee mills from other milling machine types. Non-knee-type CNC milling machines, such as vertical machining centers (VMCs) or horizontal machining centers (HMCs), are classified under HS code 8459.61, which covers "Machine-tools; for milling by removing metal, (not knee-type), numerically controlled." The primary differentiator is the absence of the adjustable knee mechanism in these machines. Furthermore, manually operated knee-type milling machines, which lack the sophisticated numerical control system, would fall under HS code 8459.59, designated for "Machine-tools; for milling by removing metal, knee-type, other." The presence of numerical control is a definitive criterion for inclusion in HS 8459.51, alongside the knee-type design.
Top exporters and importers of HS 845951 (the code used for CNC knee mill), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 845951 (the code used for CNC knee mill) in UN Comtrade data was Switzerland, with 37% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was India, with 25% of world imports. Countries that did not report 2025 data are estimated from partner records, which can understate them.
Figures cover everything classified under HS 845951, not only CNC knee mill.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 Switzerland $20M 37% of world exports
- 2 China $14M 26% of world exports
- 3 United States $3.5M 6.7% of world exports
World total: $53M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 India $16M 25% of world imports
- 2 Canada $5.4M 8.3% of world imports
- 3 Italy $5.3M 8.2% of world imports
World total: $65M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
How these figures are built
109 countries reported 2025 trade to UN Comtrade in HS 2022, and their own totals are used. Countries that did not report are estimated from what other countries recorded trading with them. Those estimates miss trade with other non-reporting countries, so they can be low, and a non-reporting country can rank higher than shown or be missing from the list. World totals add both and leave out trade between two non-reporting countries. Figures are in current US dollars; reported imports are mostly valued CIF and exports FOB, and exports include re-exports. The UN Comtrade links show the underlying records; they can also list a few reporters left out here (regional groups and older HS editions).
Source: UN Comtrade (United Nations Statistics Division), 2025 annual data.
Brazil NCM code for CNC knee mill
Brazil classifies CNC knee mill under NCM 8459.51.00: HS 8459.51 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about CNC knee mill
What is the HS code for CNC knee mill?
The HS code for CNC knee mill is 845951 (Machine-tools; for milling by removing metal, knee-type, numerically controlled). The HS code for a CNC knee mill is 8459.51.
How do I classify CNC knee mill for customs?
CNC knee mill is classified under HS code 845951 — Machine-tools; for milling by removing metal, knee-type, numerically controlled. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
What distinguishes a knee-type milling machine from other milling machines?
A knee-type milling machine is uniquely identified by its "knee," a substantial casting that supports the saddle and worktable. This knee can be moved vertically along the machine's column, allowing for precise adjustment of the workpiece height relative to the spindle. This design provides significant versatility for various milling tasks and workpiece sizes.
Which countries are the top exporters of CNC knee mill (HS 845951)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 845951 (the code used for CNC knee mill) in UN Comtrade data were Switzerland ($20M, 37% of world exports), China ($14M) and the United States ($3.5M). World exports came to about $53M, 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.
Which countries are the top importers of CNC knee mill (HS 845951)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 845951 (the code used for CNC knee mill) in UN Comtrade data were India ($16M, 25% of world imports), Canada ($5.4M) and Italy ($5.3M). World imports came to about $65M, 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.
Is the HS code for CNC knee mill the same in all countries?
The base HS code 845951 for CNC knee mill is internationally standardized for the first 6 digits across 200+ countries. Individual countries may add additional digits for national tariff lines and specific classifications.
What is the NCM code for CNC knee mill in Brazil?
In Brazil, CNC knee mill (HS 845951) is classified under NCM 8459.51.00.