Product classification
HS code for CNC surface grinder: 8460.12
Machine-tools, flat-surface grinding machines, numerically controlled.
Classification of CNC surface grinder under HS 8460.12
A CNC surface grinder is classified under HS code 846012 because it is a machine-tool specifically designed for flat-surface grinding and is numerically controlled. Surface grinding is a precision finishing process used to produce smooth, flat surfaces on workpieces. The numerical control system enables automated and highly accurate control over the grinding wheel's movement and depth of cut, ensuring consistent quality and tight tolerances. This classification precisely identifies machines dedicated to achieving high-quality flat finishes through grinding, leveraging advanced automation for superior performance in manufacturing environments.
- Covers
- CNC horizontal spindle surface grinders
- CNC vertical spindle surface grinders
- CNC rotary table surface grinders
- CNC creep feed surface grinders
- CNC double disc surface grinders
- Also under 8460.12
- Okamoto ACC-DX series
- Studer S series (flat grinding modules)
- Kellenberger 1000 series (flat grinding)
- ELB-Schliff smart series
- Chevalier FSG-AD series
Codes often confused with 8460.12
Common mistake. Common misclassifications often involve HS 846019, which covers other flat-surface grinding machines that are not numerically controlled. The critical differentiator for 846012 is the "numerically controlled" capability. Another area of potential confusion is with HS 846022, which includes other numerically controlled grinding machines for cylindrical, centerless, or other non-flat grinding operations. HS 846012 is specific to "flat-surface" grinding. Furthermore, HS 846031, which covers numerically controlled sharpening (tool or cutter grinding) machines, is distinct as surface grinders are for general flat surface finishing rather than the specialized task of tool sharpening.
Top exporters and importers of HS 846012 (the code used for CNC surface grinder), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 846012 (the code used for CNC surface grinder) in UN Comtrade data was Germany, with 22% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 24% 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 846012, not only CNC surface grinder.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 Germany $99M 22% of world exports
- 2 Switzerland $69M 15% of world exports
- 3 Spain $57M 13% of world exports
World total: $443M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 United States $78M 24% of world imports
- 2 China $70M 21% of world imports
- 3 Germany $47M 14% of world imports
World total: $332M 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 surface grinder
Brazil classifies CNC surface grinder under NCM 8460.12.00: HS 8460.12 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about CNC surface grinder
What is the HS code for CNC surface grinder?
The HS code for CNC surface grinder is 846012 (Machine-tools; flat-surface grinding machines, numerically controlled). The HS code for a CNC surface grinder is 846012.
How do I classify CNC surface grinder for customs?
CNC surface grinder is classified under HS code 846012 — Machine-tools; flat-surface grinding machines, numerically controlled. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
What is the primary function of a machine classified under HS 846012?
The primary function of a machine classified under HS 846012 is the precision grinding and finishing of flat surfaces on workpieces, controlled by a numerical system to achieve high accuracy and surface quality.
Which countries are the top exporters of CNC surface grinder (HS 846012)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 846012 (the code used for CNC surface grinder) in UN Comtrade data were Germany ($99M, 22% of world exports), Switzerland ($69M) and Spain ($57M). World exports came to about $443M, 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 surface grinder (HS 846012)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 846012 (the code used for CNC surface grinder) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($78M, 24% of world imports), China ($70M) and Germany ($47M). World imports came to about $332M, 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 surface grinder the same in all countries?
The base HS code 846012 for CNC surface grinder 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 surface grinder in Brazil?
In Brazil, CNC surface grinder (HS 846012) is classified under NCM 8460.12.00.