Product classification
HS code for CNC lathe: 8458.91
Lathes, for removing metal, numerically controlled, other than horizontal lathes.
Classification of CNC lathe under HS 8458.91
A CNC lathe is classified under HS code 8458.91, which specifically covers "Lathes; for removing metal, numerically controlled, other than horizontal lathes." This classification is precise, focusing on several key attributes. Firstly, the machine's fundamental purpose is turning, a metal-removing process where the workpiece rotates against a stationary cutting tool to create cylindrical or conical shapes. Secondly, it is "numerically controlled" (CNC), meaning its operations are automated and guided by computer programs, ensuring high precision, repeatability, and efficiency. Thirdly, and crucially for this specific subheading, it explicitly excludes "horizontal lathes." This means that vertical lathes, slant-bed lathes (if not considered horizontal), and other non-horizontal configurations of CNC lathes designed for metal removal are appropriately categorized here.
- Covers
- Vertical CNC lathes (VTLs)
- Slant-bed CNC lathes (where the bed is angled, not strictly horizontal)
- CNC turning centers with vertical or non-horizontal configurations
- Multi-tasking CNC lathes with non-horizontal primary turning axes
- Also under 8458.91
- Okuma VTM series
- Mazak VTC series
- Doosan VCF series
- DMG Mori CTV series
- You Ji VTL series
Codes often confused with 8458.91
Common mistake. Common misclassification for CNC lathes often involves distinguishing between horizontal and non-horizontal types. Horizontal CNC lathes, which are widely used, are classified under HS code 8458.11 ("Lathes; for removing metal, numerically controlled, horizontal lathes"). The primary distinction for HS 8458.91 is the explicit exclusion of horizontal configurations. Furthermore, non-CNC lathes, regardless of their orientation, would fall under different subheadings, such as 8458.99 ("Lathes; for removing metal, other, other than horizontal lathes") for non-horizontal manual lathes, or 8458.19 for horizontal manual lathes. The presence of numerical control and the non-horizontal orientation are critical for correct classification under 8458.91.
Top exporters and importers of HS 845891 (the code used for CNC lathe), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 845891 (the code used for CNC lathe) in UN Comtrade data was Germany, with 16% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 20% 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 845891, not only CNC lathe.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 Germany $160M 16% of world exports
- 2 Japan $154M 15% of world exports
- 3 China $153M 15% of world exports
World total: $1.0B Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 United States $176M 20% of world imports
- 2 China $103M 11% of world imports
- 3 Türkiye $61M 6.8% of world imports
World total: $900M 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 lathe
Brazil classifies CNC lathe under NCM 8458.91.00: HS 8458.91 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about CNC lathe
What is the HS code for CNC lathe?
The HS code for CNC lathe is 845891 (Lathes; for removing metal, numerically controlled, other than horizontal lathes). For a CNC lathe that is not a horizontal type, the HS code is 8458.91. Horizontal CNC lathes are classified under 8458.11.
How do I classify CNC lathe for customs?
CNC lathe is classified under HS code 845891 — Lathes; for removing metal, numerically controlled, other than horizontal lathes. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
What is the primary function of a CNC lathe?
The primary function of a CNC lathe is to precisely remove material from a rotating workpiece using a cutting tool, creating parts with rotational symmetry. This process, known as turning, is essential for producing shafts, bushings, and other cylindrical components with high accuracy and surface finish.
Which countries are the top exporters of CNC lathe (HS 845891)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 845891 (the code used for CNC lathe) in UN Comtrade data were Germany ($160M, 16% of world exports), Japan ($154M) and China ($153M). World exports came to about $1.0B, 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.
Which countries are the top importers of CNC lathe (HS 845891)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 845891 (the code used for CNC lathe) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($176M, 20% of world imports), China ($103M) and Türkiye ($61M). World imports came to about $900M, 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 lathe the same in all countries?
The base HS code 845891 for CNC lathe 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 lathe in Brazil?
In Brazil, CNC lathe (HS 845891) is classified under NCM 8458.91.00.