HS Code for Plastic mold

The classification of plastic molds under HS code 8480.79 is governed by the General Rules for the Interpretation (GRI) of the Harmonized System, specifically focusing on the function and the material the mold is designed to process. Heading 8480 is a specialized category that encompasses moulding boxes for metal foundry, mould bases, moulding patterns, and moulds for a variety of materials including metal, metal carbides, glass, mineral materials, rubber, or plastics. Within this heading, the structure differentiates between the specific mechanical technologies employed during the manufacturing process. Subheading 8480.71 is strictly reserved for injection or compression types, which are the most prevalent industrial methods for high-volume plastic part production. Consequently, subheading 8480.79 serves as the essential residual category for all other types of moulds used for rubber or plastics that do not utilize these specific pressurized techniques. This includes a diverse range of manufacturing tools such as blow moulds used for producing hollow plastic bottles, vacuum forming moulds used for thin-gauge packaging and trays, and rotational moulds used for large, hollow items like water tanks or playground equipment. These tools are critical industrial assets, acting as the negative cavity or form into which molten or softened material is introduced to achieve a specific geometric shape. The classification remains under 8480.79 regardless of the mould's own material composition—whether it is machined from high-grade aluminum, cast iron, or steel—as long as its primary intended use is the shaping of rubber or plastics through methods other than injection or compression.

Products Included

• Blow moulds for polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles
• Vacuum forming moulds for plastic blister packaging
• Rotational moulds for large polyethylene storage tanks
• Gravity moulds for casting liquid resins or plastics
• Transfer moulds for specific thermosetting plastic applications
• Thermoforming moulds for industrial plastic components
• Slush moulding tools for hollow PVC products

Common Misclassification

A frequent point of confusion occurs between HS code 8480.79 and 8480.71. The latter is specifically for injection or compression moulds, which are often more complex and involve high-pressure systems. If a mould uses air pressure to push plastic against the walls (blow moulding), it must be 8480.79. Another common error is using 8207.30, which covers interchangeable tools for pressing, stamping, or punching. However, because 8480 is more specific to the "moulding" process of plastics, it takes precedence over the general tool heading of 8207.

FAQ

What is the HS code for plastic mold?

The HS code for plastic moulds that are not for injection or compression is 8480.79.

Can a metal mould be classified here?

Yes, the material of the mould itself (e.g., steel or aluminum) does not change the classification; it is the material being shaped (plastic or rubber) and the method of shaping that determines the code.