Cold metal working presses - Hydraulic presses

Subheading 846261 of the Combined Nomenclature covers numerically controlled (CNC) mechanical presses with a nominal pressing force not exceeding 1000 kN (approximately 100 tonnes) for metalworking. CNC mechanical presses use crank, eccentric, or toggle drive systems to generate pressing force, with operating parameters controlled by a computer programme. This subheading includes small and medium CNC blanking presses, CNC stamping presses, and CNC assembly presses with force up to 1000 kN. Classification is based on the Notes to Chapter 84 CN and heading 8462. The essential criteria are mechanical drive, CNC control, and nominal pressing force up to 1000 kN. CNC mechanical presses with force between 1000 and 10000 kN are classified under 846262, and above 10000 kN under 846263. Classification follows the General Rules for the Interpretation of the CN. Where doubt exists, a BTI ruling should be sought.

Importing CNC mechanical presses under subheading 846261 into the EU is subject to the Union Customs Code (Regulation (EU) No 952/2013) and the Machinery Regulation (EU) 2023/1230. Presses must bear the CE marking, have an EU declaration of conformity, and include operating instructions in the official language of the destination country. Mechanical presses are subject to standards EN ISO 16092-1 (general press requirements) and EN ISO 16092-2 (mechanical presses). Importers must hold an EORI number and file a customs declaration. Import documentation includes the commercial invoice, machine technical specification describing the CNC control, nominal pressing force, and drive type, transport documents, and proof of origin. Mechanical presses are subject to specific safety requirements, including work zone protection through light curtains, two-hand controls, and ram position monitoring systems. Duty rates should be verified in TARIC.

CNC mechanical presses with force up to 1000 kN under subheading 846261 are used in producing small and medium metal components for the electronics, automotive, home appliance, and precision engineering industries. They serve for stamping electrical connectors, electronic components, small automotive parts, springs, washers, and mounting elements. With high cycle speeds, small-force CNC mechanical presses are ideal for mass production of small components. CNC control provides precise control of stroke depth and speed, enabling stamping of geometrically complex parts. For customs classification, it is essential to correctly determine the nominal pressing force, as presses exceeding 1000 kN are classified under subheading 846262. The nominal force should be established from the manufacturer's technical documentation. Importers should verify duty rates in TARIC and check for any trade measures before importing.

CNC mechanical presses to 1000 kN under CN 8462 61 are subject to stringent safety standards due to high pressing forces and crushing risks. Standards EN 692 (mechanical presses) and EN 693 (hydraulic presses) specify requirements for guards, two-hand control systems, light curtains and cycle monitoring. The Machinery Regulation (EU) 2023/1230 requires CE marking and risk assessment documentation. Presses exceeding 1000 kN force may be subject to dual-use controls for defence applications.