Product classification
HS code for Shaping machine: 8461.20
Machine-tools, shaping or slotting machines, working by removing metal, sintered metal carbides or cermets.
Classification of shaping machine under HS 8461.20
Shaping machines are classified under HS code 8461.20. This code is situated within Chapter 84, which covers nuclear reactors, boilers, machinery, and mechanical appliances. Specifically, heading 8461 is dedicated to machine tools that work by removing metal or cermets, which are not elsewhere specified. Shaping machines operate by using a reciprocating single-point cutting tool to move across the workpiece, removing material in linear strokes. This classification is based on the machine's mechanical operation and its primary purpose of metalworking. The HS system distinguishes these from lathes or milling machines based on the specific motion of the cutting tool and the nature of the metal removal process.
- Covers
- Horizontal metal shaping machines
- Vertical shaping machines (often called slotters)
- Standard industrial shapers
- Hydraulic shaping machines
- Mechanical crank shapers
- Slotting machines for metalworking
- Also under 8461.20
- Butler 18" Shaper
- Rockford Hydraulic Shaper
- TOS Hostivar Slotter
- W.M.W. Slotting Machine
- Fellows Gear Shaper
Codes often confused with 8461.20
Common mistake. Shaping machines are often confused with milling machines, which are classified under HS code 8459. The primary difference is that a milling machine uses a rotating multi-point cutter, while a shaper uses a reciprocating single-point tool. Another common misclassification occurs with woodworking shaping machines; these are classified under HS code 8465.92. It is critical to identify the material being worked (metal vs. wood) and the mechanical action to ensure the correct code is applied. Planing machines, which are similar but move the workpiece instead of the tool, are classified under 8461.50 or other subheadings.
Top exporters and importers of HS 846120 (the code used for shaping machine), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 846120 (the code used for shaping machine) in UN Comtrade data was Germany, with 36% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was the United States, with 27% 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 846120, not only shaping machine.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 Germany $19M 36% of world exports
- 2 China $6.6M 13% of world exports
- 3 Italy $5.9M 11% of world exports
World total: $52M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 United States $16M 27% of world imports
- 2 Italy $6.0M 10% of world imports
- 3 India $4.8M 8.1% of world imports
World total: $59M 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 shaping machine
Brazil splits HS 8461.20 into 2 NCM codes. Pick the one that matches your product:
- 8461.20.10Metal slotting machines
- 8461.20.90Shaping machines for metal
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about shaping machine
What is the HS code for Shaping machine?
The HS code for Shaping machine is 846120 (Machine-tools; shaping or slotting machines, working by removing metal, sintered metal carbides or cermets). The HS code for a metalworking shaping or slotting machine is 8461.20.
How do I classify Shaping machine for customs?
Shaping machine is classified under HS code 846120 — Machine-tools; shaping or slotting machines, working by removing metal, sintered metal carbides or cermets. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Can this code be used for CNC shaping machines?
Yes, if the machine's primary function is shaping or slotting metal, it remains under 8461.20, though specific regional codes may further distinguish between CNC and manual versions.
Which countries are the top exporters of shaping machine (HS 846120)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 846120 (the code used for shaping machine) in UN Comtrade data were Germany ($19M, 36% of world exports), China ($6.6M) and Italy ($5.9M). World exports came to about $52M, 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 shaping machine (HS 846120)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 846120 (the code used for shaping machine) in UN Comtrade data were the United States ($16M, 27% of world imports), Italy ($6.0M) and India ($4.8M). World imports came to about $59M, 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 Shaping machine the same in all countries?
The base HS code 846120 for Shaping machine 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 shaping machine in Brazil?
Brazil splits HS 846120 into 2 NCM codes, so the right one for shaping machine depends on the product's details: 8461.20.10 (Metal slotting machines), 8461.20.90 (Shaping machines for metal).