Subheading 842820 of the Combined Nomenclature covers pneumatic conveyors, which are devices for transporting bulk, granulated or powdered materials by means of an air stream in a closed pipeline. This category includes pressure (positive pressure) and vacuum (suction) pneumatic conveying systems, pneumatic conveyors for grain, cement, flour, plastics, chemical and pharmaceutical powders, and other bulk materials. These systems consist of a feeder, conveying pipeline, separator (cyclone), filter and blower or compressor. Classification requires distinguishing from belt conveyors (842833), bucket conveyors (842832) and other mechanical conveyors (842839). The key criterion is the use of pneumatic conveying medium (air or gas). The GIR, rules 1 and 6, form the basis for classification.

Importing pneumatic conveyors under subheading 842820 into the European Union is governed by the Machinery Regulation (EU) 2023/1230. The manufacturer or importer must prepare an EU declaration of conformity and affix the CE marking. Pneumatic conveyors for dusty or explosive materials may be subject to the ATEX Directive 2014/34/EU for equipment in potentially explosive atmospheres. Pressurised systems may be subject to the Pressure Equipment Directive 2014/68/EU (PED). The importer must hold an EORI number. Required documents include a commercial invoice, transport document, technical specification with throughput and pressure parameters, CE declaration of conformity, ATEX certificates where applicable and proof of origin. Pneumatic conveying systems for food must comply with Regulation (EC) No 1935/2004 on food contact materials.

MFN duty rates for pneumatic conveyors under subheading 842820 should be verified in the current TARIC database. Preferential rates may be available under EU FTAs. Pneumatic conveyors are often imported as complete systems of complex structure, requiring careful classification of all components. Individual system elements (blower, filter, separator) may be subject to separate tariff classification unless imported as a complete system meeting GIR rule 2a criteria. Imports from Russia and Belarus are subject to EU sanctions restrictions. National VAT is charged on import. All rates should be verified in TARIC.

Importing pneumatic conveyors under CN 8428 20 requires compliance with stringent EU safety frameworks. The Machinery Regulation (EU) 2023/1230, replacing Directive 2006/42/EC, mandates CE marking, an EU declaration of conformity, and technical documentation. Lifting equipment falls under the Lifts Directive 2014/33/EU, requiring notified body involvement in conformity assessment. Installations in explosive atmospheres need ATEX certification under Directive 2014/34/EU. The manufacturer or authorised representative in the EU bears responsibility for the conformity assessment procedure.