HS Code for Footwear manufacturing machine

Machinery used for the manufacture or repair of footwear is classified under HS code 8453.20. This heading is part of Chapter 84, which covers mechanical appliances, and specifically addresses the specialized industrial equipment required for shoemaking. The classification is based on the machine's dedicated function in the footwear production cycle, excluding general-purpose machinery. These machines perform tasks such as lasting (shaping the upper over a last), clicking (die-cutting leather or synthetic parts), and sole-attaching (bonding or mechanically fastening the sole to the upper). The distinction is important because while a shoe factory may use many types of machines, only those specifically designed for footwear construction fall under 8453.20. For instance, a machine that molds plastic soles would be classified here if it is part of the footwear assembly process, rather than a general injection molding machine. This code ensures that the specific technological needs of the global footwear industry are tracked and regulated independently of other manufacturing sectors.

Products Included

• Shoe lasting machines
• Heel-attaching machines
• Sole-stitching machines (specifically for footwear)
• Skiving machines for thinning leather edges
• Shoe-molding machinery
• Machines for pulling over and lasting uppers

Common Misclassification

The most frequent misclassification is using HS code 8452, which is reserved for sewing machines. Even if a sewing machine is used exclusively for shoes, it remains in 8452. Another error is 8477.10 for injection molding machines; if the machine is a general-purpose plastic molder not specialized for footwear, it belongs in 8477.

FAQ

What is the HS code for footwear manufacturing machine?

The HS code for machinery specifically designed for making or repairing footwear is 8453.20.

Does this code include machines for making leather gloves?

No, machines for making or repairing leather goods other than footwear (such as gloves or luggage) are classified under HS code 8453.10.