Product classification
HS code for Drafting machines: 9017.10
Drafting tables and machines, whether or not automatic.
Classification of drafting machines under HS 9017.10
Drafting machines and tables are classified under HS code 9017.10. This heading covers instruments for drawing, marking-out, or mathematical calculations. The classification is based on the functional utility of the machine in creating technical drawings or plans. Whether the machine is manual, involving a system of parallelograms or tracks, or automatic, it remains within this subheading. The inclusion of \"whether or not automatic\" in the description ensures that modern electronic drafting tables are captured here alongside traditional mechanical versions. This code is distinct from general office furniture because of the specialized measuring and guiding components integrated into the drafting surface or arm. Under GRI 1, the specific mention of drafting machines in the text of heading 9017 takes precedence over more general classifications for furniture or machinery. These items are essential for architects, engineers, and designers who require precision in manual or semi-automated drafting tasks.
- Covers
- Manual drafting machines with scales
- Automatic drafting tables
- Pantographs for drafting
- Track-type drafting machines
- Drafting tables with integrated drawing arms
- Also under 9017.10
- Mayline Ranger Drafting Table
- Mutoh Drafting Machine
- Kuhlmann Drafting System
- VEMCO V-Track Drafting Machine
- Safco Split Level Drafting Table
Codes often confused with 9017.10
Common mistake. Drafting machines are often misclassified under 9403 as general furniture. However, because they contain specialized instruments for drawing, 9017.10 is the correct technical classification. They may also be confused with 9017.20, which is for smaller drawing instruments like compasses and protractors that are not part of a machine or table.
Top exporters and importers of HS 901710 (the code used for drafting machines), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 901710 (the code used for drafting machines) in UN Comtrade data was China, with 63% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was the Philippines, with 7.5% 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 901710, not only drafting machines.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 China $24M 63% of world exports
- 2 Denmark $3.0M 7.8% of world exports
- 3 Netherlands $2.3M 6.0% of world exports
World total: $38M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 Philippines $2.2M 7.5% of world imports
- 2 United States $2.0M 7.0% of world imports
- 3 Germany $1.8M 6.4% of world imports
World total: $29M 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 codes for drafting machines
Brazil splits HS 9017.10 into 2 NCM codes. Pick the one that matches your product:
- 9017.10.10Automatic drafting tables and machines
- 9017.10.90Non-automatic drafting tables and machines
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about drafting machines
What is the HS code for Drafting machines?
The HS code for Drafting machines is 901710 (Drafting tables and machines; whether or not automatic). The HS code for drafting machines, whether manual or automatic, is 9017.10.
How do I classify Drafting machines for customs?
Drafting machines is classified under HS code 901710 — Drafting tables and machines; whether or not automatic. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Does this include CAD software?
No, CAD software is classified under 8523 as recorded media. This code only covers the physical drafting hardware and machines.
Which countries are the top exporters of drafting machines (HS 901710)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 901710 (the code used for drafting machines) in UN Comtrade data were China ($24M, 63% of world exports), Denmark ($3.0M) and the Netherlands ($2.3M). World exports came to about $38M, 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 drafting machines (HS 901710)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 901710 (the code used for drafting machines) in UN Comtrade data were the Philippines ($2.2M, 7.5% of world imports), the United States ($2.0M) and Germany ($1.8M). World imports came to about $29M, 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 Drafting machines the same in all countries?
The base HS code 901710 for Drafting machines 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 drafting machines in Brazil?
Brazil splits HS 901710 into 2 NCM codes, so the right one for drafting machines depends on the product's details: 9017.10.10 (Automatic drafting tables and machines), 9017.10.90 (Non-automatic drafting tables and machines).