Product classification
HS code for Small offset press: 8443.12
Printing machinery, offset, sheet-fed, office type (sheet size not exceeding 22 x 36cm in the unfolded state).
Classification of small offset press under HS 8443.12
The classification of a small offset press under HS code 8443.12 is determined by its mechanical operation and physical capacity. This code specifically targets offset printing machinery that is sheet-fed and categorized as "office type." The critical technical threshold for this classification is the sheet size; the machine must not accommodate sheets exceeding 22 cm by 36 cm in their unfolded state. Offset printing involves the transfer of an inked image from a plate to a rubber blanket and then to the printing surface. Because these machines are designed for smaller formats, they are typically used for business cards, letterheads, and small brochures in an office or light commercial environment. The Harmonized System distinguishes these from larger industrial presses based on these specific dimensions to ensure uniform tariff application across international borders. The classification remains consistent regardless of whether the machine is used for single-color or multi-color printing, provided the sheet size limitation is met.
- Covers
- Small office offset printers
- Sheet-fed offset presses (max 22x36cm)
- Desktop offset duplicators
- Compact commercial offset machines
- Tabletop offset printing units
- Also under 8443.12
- Ryobi 3302M
- Hamada C248
- AB Dick 9800 series
- Multilith 1250
- Heidelberg Printmaster QM 46
Codes often confused with 8443.12
Common mistake. Small offset presses are frequently confused with larger offset machinery under HS code 8443.11 or 8443.13. The primary distinction is the sheet size; if the press handles sheets larger than 22x36cm, it cannot stay in 8443.12. Additionally, they are often misclassified under 8443.39, which covers other printers and copying machines. However, 8443.39 is generally reserved for digital, inkjet, or laser printers that do not utilize the offset (blanket-to-substrate) process. It is essential to verify the mechanical printing method before assigning the code.
Top exporters and importers of HS 844312 (the code used for small offset press), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 844312 (the code used for small offset press) in UN Comtrade data was Thailand, with 37% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was the United Arab Emirates, with about 24% 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 844312, not only small offset press.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 Thailand $8.7M 37% of world exports
- 2 United States $5.4M 23% of world exports
- 3 Germany $1.8M 7.6% of world exports
World total: $24M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 United Arab Emirates* ~$5.2M 24% of world imports · partner records ↗
- 2 Egypt $3.4M 15% of world imports
- 3 India $2.6M 12% of world imports
World total: $22M 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 marked * did not, so their figures add up what other countries recorded trading with them, and their exports are valued at buyers' CIF prices. 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 code for small offset press
Brazil classifies small offset press under NCM 8443.12.00: HS 8443.12 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about small offset press
What is the HS code for Small offset press?
The HS code for Small offset press is 844312 (Printing machinery; offset, sheet-fed, office type (sheet size not exceeding 22 x 36cm in the unfolded state)). The HS code for a small, office-type, sheet-fed offset press with a sheet size not exceeding 22 x 36 cm is 8443.12.
How do I classify Small offset press for customs?
Small offset press is classified under HS code 844312 — Printing machinery; offset, sheet-fed, office type (sheet size not exceeding 22 x 36cm in the unfolded state). This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Does this code include digital printers?
No, HS code 8443.12 is strictly for offset printing machinery. Digital printers, such as laser or inkjet printers, are classified under subheadings like 8443.31 or 8443.32 depending on their functions.
Which countries are the top exporters of small offset press (HS 844312)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 844312 (the code used for small offset press) in UN Comtrade data were Thailand ($8.7M, 37% of world exports), the United States ($5.4M) and Germany ($1.8M). World exports came to about $24M, 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 small offset press (HS 844312)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 844312 (the code used for small offset press) in UN Comtrade data were the United Arab Emirates (about $5.2M, 24% of world imports), Egypt ($3.4M) and India ($2.6M). World imports came to about $22M, 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 Small offset press the same in all countries?
The base HS code 844312 for Small offset press 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 small offset press in Brazil?
In Brazil, small offset press (HS 844312) is classified under NCM 8443.12.00.