HS Code for Industrial 3D printer

The classification of industrial 3D printers underwent a significant change with the 2022 HS nomenclature update. Previously, these machines were often classified under 8477 (for plastics) or 8479 (as machines with individual functions). However, heading 8485 was created specifically to harmonize the classification of additive manufacturing machines. Subheading 8485.10 is reserved for machines that perform additive manufacturing by metal deposit. This includes various technologies such as powder bed fusion, directed energy deposition, and binder jetting, provided the end result is a metal part. The classification is driven by the additive nature of the process—building parts layer by layer—rather than subtractive methods like milling or turning. Industrial versions are distinguished by their build volume, precision, and ability to handle reactive metal powders. This specific code ensures that metal-based 3D printing technology is tracked separately from plastic or ceramic-based systems, reflecting the growing importance of metal additive manufacturing in aerospace and medical sectors.

Products Included

• Selective Laser Melting (SLM) machines
• Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS) machines
• Electron Beam Melting (EBM) machines
• Metal Binder Jetting systems
• Laser Metal Deposition (LMD) industrial systems

Common Misclassification

Industrial 3D printers for metal are often misclassified under 8485.20, which is specifically for plastic or rubber deposit. They may also be incorrectly placed in 8456 (machine tools for removal of material by laser) or 8463 (other machine tools for working metal). However, heading 8485 is now the mandatory heading for all additive manufacturing machines regardless of the technology used, with 8485.10 being the specific code for metal.

FAQ

What is the HS code for a metal 3D printer?

The correct HS code for an industrial 3D printer that deposits metal is 8485.10.

What if the printer can use both metal and plastic?

According to GRI 3(b), the machine should be classified based on its principal function or the material it is primarily designed to process. Most industrial machines are specialized for one or the other.