Product classification
HS code for Tapping machine: 8459.70
Machine-tools, for threading or tapping by removing metal.
Classification of tapping machine under HS 8459.70
Tapping machines are classified under HS code 8459.70. This code falls within heading 8459, which covers machine-tools (including way-type unit head machines) for drilling, boring, milling, threading, or tapping by removing metal, other than lathes of heading 8458. Tapping is the process of cutting internal threads in a hole, and machines dedicated to this function are specifically categorized in the .70 sub-heading. These machines are characterized by their ability to rotate a tap into a pre-drilled hole and then reverse the rotation to withdraw the tool. The classification requires that the machine operates by removing metal; machines that form threads through deformation without removing material (thread rolling) are classified elsewhere. These are typically stationary industrial machines used in metalworking shops and manufacturing lines.
- Covers
- Automatic tapping machines
- Nut tapping machines
- Vertical tapping machines
- CNC tapping centers (dedicated)
- Multi-spindle tapping machines
- Also under 8459.70
- Ridgid 300 Power Drive
- Oster 792
- Landis Threading Machine
- Emuge-Frank tapping machines
- Brother TC-S2DN (tapping focus)
Codes often confused with 8459.70
Common mistake. Tapping machines are often confused with 8467.21, which covers hand-held electric drills that may have a tapping function. However, 8459.70 is reserved for stationary machine tools. Another common error is classification under 8457.10 (machining centers) if the machine can perform multiple functions like milling and drilling in addition to tapping. If the machine is used for threading bolts (external threads) rather than tapping holes (internal threads), it still falls under 8459.70 as the sub-heading covers both threading and tapping.
Top exporters and importers of HS 845970 (the code used for tapping machine), 2025
In 2025, the largest exporter of HS 845970 (the code used for tapping machine) in UN Comtrade data was China, with 30% of world exports; the largest importer in UN Comtrade data was Thailand, with 11% 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 845970, not only tapping machine.
Top exporters 2025 · share of world exports
- 1 China $43M 30% of world exports
- 2 Germany $17M 12% of world exports
- 3 United States $16M 11% of world exports
World total: $144M Reported figures on UN Comtrade ↗
Top importers 2025 · share of world imports
- 1 Thailand $16M 11% of world imports
- 2 United States $15M 11% of world imports
- 3 Vietnam* ~$10.0M 7.1% of world imports · partner records ↗
World total: $140M 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 tapping machine
Brazil classifies tapping machine under NCM 8459.70.00: HS 8459.70 with 00 added.
Source: Siscomex NCM table, updated Oct 2026. The Portuguese text on each NCM page is the official one.
Questions about tapping machine
What is the HS code for Tapping machine?
The HS code for Tapping machine is 845970 (Machine-tools; for threading or tapping by removing metal). The HS code for a stationary metal-removing tapping machine is 8459.70.
How do I classify Tapping machine for customs?
Tapping machine is classified under HS code 845970 — Machine-tools; for threading or tapping by removing metal. This is a 6-digit subheading level code.
Does this code include manual hand taps?
No, manual hand taps are considered interchangeable tools and are classified under heading 8207. HS code 8459.70 is for the power-operated machine tool itself.
Which countries are the top exporters of tapping machine (HS 845970)?
In 2025, the top exporters of HS 845970 (the code used for tapping machine) in UN Comtrade data were China ($43M, 30% of world exports), Germany ($17M) and the United States ($16M). World exports came to about $144M, 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 tapping machine (HS 845970)?
In 2025, the top importers of HS 845970 (the code used for tapping machine) in UN Comtrade data were Thailand ($16M, 11% of world imports), the United States ($15M) and Vietnam (about $10.0M). World imports came to about $140M, 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 Tapping machine the same in all countries?
The base HS code 845970 for Tapping 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 tapping machine in Brazil?
In Brazil, tapping machine (HS 845970) is classified under NCM 8459.70.00.