Other

Subheading 846229 of the Combined Nomenclature covers other bending machines, straightening machines, shearing machines, and punching machines for metals that are not numerically controlled (CNC). This subheading includes manual and hydraulic sheet metal bending machines, guillotine shears without computer control, bar and sheet straightening machines, conventional punching machines, and other machines for forming metal by bending, straightening, and cutting. The key criterion distinguishing subheading 846229 from subheadings 846221 to 846226 is the absence of CNC numerical control. These machines may have manual, mechanical, or hydraulic control, but not computer numerical control. Classification is based on the Notes to Chapter 84 CN and heading 8462, covering machine tools for working metal by forming. Subheading 846229 is residual in nature within the group of bending machines, shears, and punching machines without CNC. Classification follows the General Rules for the Interpretation of the CN, particularly Rules 1 and 6. Where doubt exists, Binding Tariff Information ruling should be sought.

Importing bending and shearing machines under subheading 846229 into the European Union is subject to the Union Customs Code (Regulation (EU) No 952/2013) and the Machinery Regulation (EU) 2023/1230. Machines placed on the EU market must bear the CE marking, be accompanied by an EU declaration of conformity, and include operating instructions in the official language of the destination country. Sheet metal bending machines and shears are subject to harmonised European standards, particularly EN 12622 for safety of hydraulic press brakes, EN 13985 for plate bending rolls, and EN 13736 for safety of metal shears. Importers must hold an EORI number and submit a customs declaration in the import system. Import documentation includes the commercial invoice, machine technical specification, transport documents, and proof of origin for preferential tariff rates. Electrically powered machines are subject to the Low Voltage Directive (LVD) 2014/35/EU. MFN duty rates and any trade measures should be verified in the TARIC system before each import.

Bending and shearing machines under subheading 846229 are commonly used in metalworking workshops, fabrication shops, construction companies, and small and medium-sized manufacturing enterprises. Bending machines are used to bend sheets, profiles, and metal tubes into required shapes without removing material. Guillotine shears cut sheet metal to size. Straightening machines correct the shape of bars, sheets, and profiles after rolling or transport. Machines without CNC control are generally less expensive and simpler to operate than their numerically controlled counterparts, making them popular in smaller workshops. For customs classification, it is important to distinguish bending and shearing machines under subheading 846229 from hand bending tools under heading 8205, and from presses under subheadings 846242 to 846269. Machines under subheading 846229 are stationary machines with mechanical or hydraulic drives. Correct classification requires analysis of machine construction and technological function. Duty rates should be verified in TARIC before importing.

Bending and shearing machines under CN 8462 29 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.