HS Code for MIG welder

MIG (Metal Inert Gas) welders are classified under HS code 8515.39. This classification falls under Chapter 85, which covers electrical machinery and equipment. Heading 8515 is specifically for electric, laser, or other light or photon beam, ultrasonic, electron beam, magnetic pulse or plasma arc soldering, brazing or welding machines. Within this heading, the 8515.3x series is dedicated to machines for arc welding of metals. Subheading 8515.39 is the residual category for arc welding machines that are not 'fully or partly automatic.' Most manual or semi-automatic MIG welders used in workshops, where the operator controls the torch and movement, fall into this category. The classification depends on the welding process (arc welding) and the level of automation. Even though MIG welding involves an automatic wire feed, the process is generally considered semi-automatic and thus classified under 8515.39 in many jurisdictions, unless the entire movement and operation are robotic.

Products Included

• Manual MIG welding machines
• Semi-automatic MAG (Metal Active Gas) welders
• Portable wire-feed arc welders
• TIG welders (non-automatic)
• Inverter-based arc welding power sources

Common Misclassification

MIG welders are often misclassified under 8515.31, which is reserved for 'fully or partly automatic' machines. The distinction usually depends on whether the machine controls the path of the weld (automatic) or if a human operator does (manual/semi-automatic). They may also be confused with 8515.80, which covers other types of welding equipment like resistance welders.

FAQ

What is the HS code for MIG welder?

The standard HS code for a manual or semi-automatic MIG welder is 8515.39.

Does the code change if the welder can also do TIG welding?

Generally, no. If the primary function is arc welding and it is not fully automatic, it remains under 8515.39, as both MIG and TIG are forms of arc welding.