Import procedure guide for general mechanical processing machines not subject to a separate management list

Import-export procedures by product · General machinery

IMPORT PROCEDURE GUIDE FOR GENERAL MECHANICAL PROCESSING MACHINES NOT SUBJECT TO A SEPARATE MANAGEMENT LIST

General mechanical processing machines may normally be cleared under standard customs procedures when they are new machines, not listed as group-2 goods, not subject to strict occupational-safety management and not covered by a separate specialized management list. However, if the machine is described too broadly or the actual equipment is a lathe, milling machine, drilling machine, grinding machine, cutting machine, press, CNC machining center or used machine, customs may request further clarification on HS code, used-machinery policy, catalogue, year of manufacture, technical standards, labels and C/O. This guide provides an E2E (End-to-End) review map for HS code, duties, specialized policies, customs documents, clearance workflow and risks to control before ETA (Estimated Time of Arrival).

QUICK FACT

CheckpointReview contentOperational note
Product scopeGeneral mechanical processing machines: lathes, milling machines, drilling machines, grinding machines, cutting machines, presses, bending machines, punching machines, machining centers or similar machine toolsApply only when the machine is not subject to a separate management list based on the actual technical dossier.
Reference HS codesHeadings 8456–8463 for machine tools; 8466 for parts/accessories when imported separatelyFinal HS must follow main function, material processed, processing method, CNC/NC control and machine configuration.
Reference MFN dutyMay be 0% for certain mechanical processing machines under headings 84.54–84.63 that are not domestically produced; otherwise apply the duty rate of the exact HS lineDo not finalize duty without catalogue, model, function and 8-digit HS code.
Ordinary import dutyUsually calculated as 150% of the corresponding MFN rateUse only as a risk scenario if MFN/FTA conditions are not met.
Import VATGeneral rate: 10%; review possible 8% treatment during the VAT reduction period if the HS line is not excludedCheck the VAT Law, Decree 181/2025/ND-CP, Decree 174/2025/ND-CP and the actual HS code.
Specialized policyNew ordinary machines are generally processed at customs if they are not listed separately; used machines must be reviewed under Decision 18/2019/QD-TTg and Decision 28/2022/QD-TTgDo not state “no license required” until model, function, condition and accessories are reviewed.
Goods labelingOriginal label and Vietnamese supplementary label may be required when the goods are circulated in VietnamCheck model, serial number, origin, year of manufacture, manufacturer and key specifications.
Legal note

This article applies only to general mechanical processing machines not subject to a separate management list. If the machine has high-power laser, lifting mechanism, pressure vessel, special hydraulic unit, industrial robot, strict occupational-safety requirement, printing function, medical use, radiation source, wireless module, battery, encryption function or used/refurbished condition, the relevant specialized policy must be reviewed. Review against the actual catalogue, datasheet, model and import purpose.

Illustration for Import procedure guide for general mechanical processing machines not subject to a separate management list
Illustration of the product group and document review before customs clearance.

SCOPE OF APPLICATION

Applies to
  • New machines used for cutting, turning, milling, drilling, grinding, pressing, bending, punching or forming metal or hard materials.
  • Machine tools used in factories, workshops, machining centers, mold-making or maintenance facilities.
  • Standalone machines not imported as a complete production line and not accompanied by separately regulated equipment.
Does not automatically apply to
  • Used, refurbished or remanufactured machinery.
  • Machinery subject to strict occupational safety requirements.
  • Printing machines, medical equipment, radiation equipment, special laser equipment, robots, pressure vessels or lifting systems.
  • Complete production lines, project machinery or machines exceeding ordinary import criteria.

Similar trade names cannot be applied to one common policy conclusion. A CNC machine may differ from a manual machine, a high-speed spindle machine, a multi-axis rotary table machine or a machine integrated with a loading robot. Samples, warranty goods, EPE/FDI/factory imports, project cargo and temporary imports also require separate customs-type review.

CLASSIFICATION & TECHNICAL IDENTIFICATION

For mechanical processing machines, the commercial name is not sufficient for HS classification. The catalogue/datasheet must be reviewed to identify the principal function, processed material, processing mechanism, CNC/NC control level, accessories and goods condition.

TECHNICAL IDENTIFICATION CRITERIA
Criteria to checkDocuments to compareRisk if wrongly describedSuggested description on documents/declaration
Principal functionCatalogue, datasheet, manual, machine photos, operation video if availableWrong HS heading between lathe, milling, grinding, cutting, press or other machine toolMetal [lathe/milling/drilling/grinding/cutting/bending/press] machine, model…, power…, brand new.
Processed materialDatasheet, spindle/tooling specifications, fixturesConfusion between machines for metal and machines for wood, plastic, stone or other materialsState “for metalworking” or the main designed material.
Control technologyCNC/NC specifications, controller, number of axes, softwareWrong subheading between numerically controlled and non-numerically controlled machinesState CNC/NC/manual and number of axes where decisive.
Goods conditionInvoice, contract, serial photos, year of manufacture, inspection certificate if usedUsed machine declared as new may be held and reviewed under Decision 18State “brand new” or “used, year…, standard…” accurately.
AccessoriesPacking list, model list, tool holders, motor, electric cabinet, cooling unitAccessories may require separate HS or policy if imported separatelySeparate accessories accompanying the machine from independently imported parts.
Special functionsLaser, pressure, lifting, robot, radiation, pneumatic/hydraulic dataMay trigger specialized management or occupational-safety reviewDescribe functions truthfully and review policy before ETA.
Classification warning

Generic descriptions such as “machinery”, “mechanical machine”, “CNC machine” or “metal processing machine” may lead to HS misclassification, wrong specialized policy, wrong used-machinery treatment, labeling issues and catalogue requests under yellow/red channel.

HS CODE – DUTIES – C/O

The HS code for ordinary mechanical processing machinery should be determined by principal function, material processed, working principle, CNC/control configuration, accessories imported together, and new/used status. The most relevant headings are 8456–8463; 8465, 8466 and 8479 must be reviewed when the machine works other hard materials, parts/accessories are imported separately, or the machine has an individual function not covered by a more specific heading.

Duty finalisation principle

The rates below are operational references for pre-ETA tax review. They must be checked again against the current tariff schedule on the customs declaration date.

INDICATIVE HS CODE TABLE
Indicative HSWhen to considerKey classification pointDocuments to check
8456Laser, plasma, water-jet, ultrasonic, EDM and similar material-working machines.Do not confuse laser/plasma cutting with mechanical sawing, punching or pressing.Catalogue, technology, power source, processed material, model.
8457Machining centres, unit construction machines, multi-station transfer machines.Confirm multi-operation machining capability and tool-changing system.Datasheet, CNC controller, axes, tool magazine, table, operation flow.
8458Lathes and turning centres for metal.Separate CNC lathes, conventional lathes and turning centres.Controller, spindle, chuck, bed length, catalogue, photos.
8459Drilling, boring, milling, threading/tapping machines, excluding lathes.If the machine performs multiple operations as a machining centre, review 8457 first.Main function, spindle, tool list, table, controller.
8460Grinding, honing, lapping, polishing and surface-finishing machines for metal.Surface finishing is different from cutting or punching.Grinding/polishing method, abrasive head, material, output finish.
8461Planing, broaching, gear-cutting, sawing/cut-off and other metal-removing tools.“Cutting machine” must be supported by actual cutting principle.Blade/tool, cutting movement, material, photos/video.
8462Forging, bending, folding, shearing, punching or pressing machines for metal.Separate metal-working presses from plastic injection presses or general hydraulic equipment.Press force, die type, hydraulic/mechanical structure, material processed.
8463Other machine tools for working metal/carbides without removing material.The non-material-removal process must be evidenced.Process description, sample output, catalogue.
8465Machines for wood, hard plastics, hard rubber and similar hard materials.Not for metal-working machines.Input material, processing technology, catalogue.
8466Parts/accessories, fixtures, holders and work holders for machines of 8456–8465.Separately imported parts do not automatically follow the HS code of the main machine.BOM, packing list, photos, related machine model.
8479Machines having individual functions, not specified elsewhere in Chapter 84.Use only after excluding more specific headings.Function description, working principle, production-line context.
REFERENCE DUTY TABLE BY HS GROUP
HS branch to checkTypical goodsIndicative MFN dutyIndicative ordinary dutyImport VATC/O / FTA note
8456.11.00 / 8456.12 / 8456.40 / 8456.50 / 8456.90Laser, plasma, EDM, water-jet, ultrasonic machines.0%–5%; common laser-working machines may be 0%.Usually around 5% or per 8-digit code.10%; check possible 8% if the VAT reduction policy applies.If MFN is 0%, C/O may not reduce duty but remains useful for origin/project records.
8457.10 / 8457.20 / 8457.30Machining centres and transfer machines.Often 0%.Indicatively 5% or per 8-digit code.10% or 8% if eligible.Check FTA benefits by origin; benefit may be neutral if MFN is already 0%.
8458Lathes and turning centres.Often 0%.Indicatively 5%.10%; review 8% policy where applicable.C/O must match description, HS, model and serial number.
8459Drilling, boring, milling, threading/tapping machines.Often 0%; some sub-lines may differ.Indicatively 5%.10%; review 8% policy where applicable.Check whether the machine is actually a machining centre under 8457.
8460Grinding, honing, polishing and finishing machines.Often 0%.Indicatively 5%.10%; review 8% policy where applicable.Use precise description instead of generic “polishing machine”.
8461Planing, broaching, gear-cutting, sawing/cut-off machines.Often 0%.Indicatively 5%.10%; review 8% policy where applicable.Distinguish from 8456 laser/plasma and 8462 punching/pressing.
8462.10 / 8462.21 / 8462.29 / 8462.41 / 8462.49 / 8462.91 / 8462.99Metal pressing, bending, shearing, punching machines.0%–2%; certain electric presses may be around 2%.Usually around 3%–5%.10%; review 8% policy where applicable.Many FTA routes may reduce duty to 0% with valid C/O.
8463Other metal-working tools without material removal.0%–5%.Usually around 5%–7.5%.10%; review 8% policy where applicable.Evidence non-material-removal principle.
8465Machines for wood/hard plastics/hard rubber.0%–5%.Usually around 5%–7.5%.10%; review 8% policy where applicable.Do not use for metal-working machinery.
8466Parts, fixtures, holders imported separately.0%–5%.Usually around 5%–7.5%.10%; review 8% policy where applicable.Description must show use with a specific machine.
8479.89 / 8479.90Individual-function machines or parts not elsewhere specified.0%–5% or another rate by exact line.Per 8-digit code.10%; review 8% policy where applicable.Use only after excluding 8456–8466.
C/O risk

C/O rejection may increase not only import duty but also the VAT base. For high-value machinery, this can affect capital planning, project budget and delivery schedule.

SPECIALIZED MANAGEMENT POLICY

SPECIALIZED POLICY MATRIX
Goods scenarioPossible applicable policyDocuments to checkAuthority/portal if identifiableRecommended timingRisk note
New ordinary mechanical machine not listed separatelyStandard customs procedure; review HS, duty, label and C/OInvoice, Packing List, B/L/AWB, catalogue, datasheet, photosCustoms/VNACCSBefore ETADo not state “no license required” until model and accessories are reviewed.
Used/refurbished machineryDecision 18/2019/QD-TTg and Decision 28/2022/QD-TTg on used machineryYear of manufacture, serial, inspection certificate, technical standardsCustoms and inspection body where applicableBefore purchase/bookingWrong goods condition is the major risk in machinery imports.
Machine with pressure vessel, boiler, hoist, lift table or special hydraulic systemMay fall under strict occupational-safety equipment listPressure/lifting specifications, certificates, inspection documents if anyLabour/specialized authority depending on equipmentBefore ETA and before useMay not require import license but may require safety inspection before use.
Machine with laser, plasma, radiation source or special source equipmentMay require additional safety/radiation/laser/electrical reviewPower, wavelength, laser class, shielding and manualSpecialized authority according to actual functionBefore contract signingDo not treat as ordinary mechanical cutting machine.
Machine with electric cabinet, inverter, motor or controllerReview as part of the complete machine; separate import may require separate HS/policyPacking list, BOM, wiring diagram, electrical datasheetCustoms/specialized authority if listedBefore declarationSeparate accessories may require separate classification.
Machine with Wi-Fi/Bluetooth/4G/5G or encryption moduleMay trigger ICT/telecom/civil cryptography/cybersecurity review if the module is separate or central to functionModule list, radio specification, encryption function, user manualTelecom/cybersecurity/civil cryptography authority if applicableBefore ETAReview based on actual dossier.
Imported for EPE/FDI/factory/projectReview customs type, import purpose, fixed asset treatment and incentives if anyProject documents, IRC/ERC, asset list, internal approvalCustoms/investment authority if applicableBefore declarationWrong customs type may affect tax and post-clearance audit.
SEPARATE CHECK TABLE FOR USED / REFURBISHED MACHINES
CheckpointQuestion to verifyRequired evidenceRisk if missing
Goods conditionIs the machine brand new, used, refurbished, reconditioned or demo goods?Contract, invoice, nameplate photos and seller/manufacturer confirmationA wrong condition declaration may change the entire import policy.
Manufacturing year / ageDoes the manufacturing year satisfy Decision 18/2019/QD-TTg and its amendments?Nameplate, catalogue, serial number and inspection certificate if applicableCustoms may request additional inspection or reject eligibility.
Production standardDoes the machine have an applicable production standard or technical conformity basis?Manufacturer declaration/certificate, technical standard, test/inspection report if anyWeak explanation when customs asks for used-machine conditions.
Special scenarioIs it imported for project, warranty, replacement, asset transfer or EPE/FDI use?Project documents, warranty agreement, asset transfer records, investment decision if anyWrong customs regime or missing basis for tax treatment if applicable.

LEGAL DOCUMENTS TO REVIEW

Document groupDocument name/numberIssuing authorityEffective date/timing if identifiableRole in procedureKey provisions/annexes to noteReview note
Customs lawCustoms Law No. 54/2014/QH13; Law No. 90/2025/QH15 where relevantNational AssemblyAs per each documentCore legal basis for customs declaration, inspection and supervisionCustoms dossier, inspection and post-clearance provisionsCheck validity at declaration date.
Customs decrees/circularsDecree 08/2015/ND-CP, Decree 59/2018/ND-CP, Circular 38/2015/TT-BTC, Circular 39/2018/TT-BTCGovernment/Ministry of FinanceAs per each documentCustoms dossier, valuation, declaration, amendment and channel inspectionElectronic customs dossier and document inspectionReview by customs type.
Foreign trade managementDecree 69/2018/ND-CP; Circular 12/2018/TT-BCT; Consolidated Document 24/VBHN-BCT (2026)Government/MOITDecree 69 issued 15 May 2018; consolidated text issued 30 Mar 2026Determines prohibited goods, licensed imports and goods cleared by customs onlyArticle 4 of Decree 69 on export/import proceduresOrdinary machinery still requires annex and specialized-policy review.
Used machineryDecision 18/2019/QD-TTg; Decision 28/2022/QD-TTgPrime MinisterDecision 18 effective 15 Jun 2019; Decision 28 effective 1 Mar 2023Conditions for importing used machinery/equipment/technology linesAge, standards, inspection certificate and special casesOnly applicable when the machine is not brand new.
Occupational safetyCircular 36/2019/TT-BLDTBXHMOLISAIssued 30 Dec 2019List of machinery/equipment/materials/substances subject to strict occupational safety requirementsPressure and lifting equipment, boilers and similar items if includedDo not apply automatically; check configuration.
Product qualityLaw on Product and Goods Quality No. 05/2007/QH12; Decree 132/2008/ND-CP; Decree 74/2018/ND-CP; Decree 154/2018/ND-CPNational Assembly/GovernmentAs per each documentBasis for group-2 goods and quality inspection where listedSectoral group-2 listsApply only when the machine is listed.
TariffDecree 26/2023/ND-CP; Decree 108/2025/ND-CP and later amendments if anyGovernmentDecree 26 effective 15 Jul 2023; Decree 108 effective 19 May 2025Preferential import/export tariff and special duty policyHeadings 84.54–84.63 and exact HS lineCheck tariff schedule at declaration date.
VATVAT Law 48/2024/QH15; Decree 181/2025/ND-CP; Decree 174/2025/ND-CPNational Assembly/GovernmentVAT Law effective 1 Jul 2025; Decree 174 effective 1 Jul 2025Determines 10% VAT or 2% VAT reduction if eligibleExclusion annexes of Decree 174/2025/ND-CPDo not assume 8%; confirm by HS and annex.
LabelingDecree 43/2017/ND-CP; Decree 111/2021/ND-CPGovernmentDecree 43 effective 1 Jun 2017; Decree 111 effective 15 Feb 2022Imported goods labeling and Vietnamese supplementary labelGoods name, model, origin, manufacturer and main specificationsReview label before delivery.

VIEW / DOWNLOAD ORIGINAL LEGAL DOCUMENTS

Enter the document number on the Government legal document portal, Vietnam Customs portal or the issuing authority’s website. Enterprises should cross-check the original source before applying any provision.

CUSTOMS CLEARANCE DOCUMENT SET

Commercial documents
Specialized documents if applicable
  • Inspection certificate for used machinery if subject to Decision 18/2019/QD-TTg.
  • Occupational-safety documents if the machine is listed.
  • Technical test report/certificate if requested by customs or specialized authority.
  • Original label and Vietnamese supplementary label.
  • Project/fixed-asset dossier for factory, EPE or FDI import.
OPERATIONAL DOCUMENT CHECKLIST
Document groupRequired documentUsed forUsually prepared byCommon errorPre-ETA check
CommercialInvoice, Packing List, Contract/POValue, quantity and termsExporter/Importer/DocsGeneric goods name, missing model/serial, wrong IncotermsCompare with contract, catalogue and booking.
TransportB/L or AWB, Arrival Notice, Pre-alertDelivery order, declaration, ETA trackingForwarder/Carrier/AgentWrong consignee, wrong destination, missing OOG dataCheck draft B/L/AWB and packing before ETD.
TechnicalCatalogue, datasheet, manual, photos, model/serial listHS, policy and channel explanationManufacturer/Importer/EngineeringCatalogue does not show principal function or conditionRequest technical dossier before booking.
Used machinery if anyYear of manufacture, inspection certificate, production standard, refurbishment dossierDecision 18 review and customs explanationImporter/Supplier/Inspection bodyMissing year or unsuitable certificateConfirm used-machinery conditions before purchase.
C/OProper C/O form, invoice, B/L, direct transport evidenceFTA import duty preferenceExporter/ImporterWrong HS, description or origin criterionCheck draft C/O before issuance.
LabelOriginal label, Vietnamese supplementary labelMarket circulation and auditImporter/ComplianceMissing origin, model, specifications or responsible entityReview label under Decree 43/111 before ETA.

DECISION POINTS THAT MAY HOLD THE SHIPMENT

Decision pointQuestion to answerSupporting documentConsequence if unclearRecommended handling
HS codeIs the machine under 8456, 8457, 8458, 8459, 8460, 8461, 8462, 8463 or another code?Catalogue, datasheet, photos, manualHS query, channel change, duty adjustmentPrepare HS classification explanation before ETA.
New or used conditionDo documents clearly show goods condition?Contract, invoice, serial photos, year of manufacture, certificate if anyDecision 18 dossier may be requiredDo not buy/book used machinery before policy review.
Separate management listDoes the machine include lifting, pressure, laser, robot, printing, medical, radiation or radio function?Datasheet, BOM, manual, configuration photosLicense/inspection/certificate may ariseReview each module and accessory.
C/O validityAre form, origin criterion, HS, goods description and third-party invoice correct?Draft C/O, B/L, invoice, packing listFTA preference may be rejectedCheck C/O before ETD.
Customs valueAre machine price, accessories, software, technical or installation fees separated properly?Contract, invoice, payment, quotationValuation consultation or explanation may be requestedSeparate goods and services clearly if applicable.
Label/model consistencyDo model/serial on machine, invoice, packing list and catalogue match?Nameplate photo, packing list, cataloguePhysical inspection or document amendmentRequest nameplate photos before shipment.

PRACTICAL E2E PROCESS

Step 1: Pre-ETA review

Confirm HS code, new/used policy, duty, C/O, labeling, customs type and specialized-management triggers.

Step 2: Lock documents and technical dossier

Lock Invoice, Packing List, B/L/AWB, catalogue, datasheet, manual, model/serial list and nameplate photos.

Step 3: Prepare specialized documents if any

For used machinery, occupational-safety equipment or special modules, prepare certificates/technical documents before arrival.

Step 4: Lodge customs declaration

Green channel: conditional clearance by system. Yellow channel: document inspection. Red channel: document and physical inspection. Common questions: HS, condition, catalogue, C/O, value and specialized policy.

Step 5: Clearance, delivery and post-clearance file keeping

Release/deliver the machine, arrange supplementary label if needed and retain the shipment dossier for post-clearance audit.

RISK CHECKLIST BEFORE ETA

RiskConsequencePre-ETA controlDocument to check
Generic goods descriptionHS/function query and clearance delayRequest catalogue, datasheet, machine photos and operation informationCatalogue, datasheet, manual, nameplate photo.
Unclear new/used conditionDecision 18 dossier may arise and cargo may be heldConfirm goods condition in contract and invoiceContract, invoice, serial photos, year of manufacture.
Wrong HS among 8456–8463Wrong duty and compliance riskPrepare function-based classification explanationHS notes, catalogue and technical specifications.
Invalid C/OFTA preference rejectedCheck draft C/O before ETDDraft C/O, invoice and B/L.
Label/model/serial mismatchPhysical inspection or document amendmentRequest nameplate and packing mark photosLabel photos, Packing List and catalogue.
Unreviewed accessories/modulesSeparate policy may arise for lifting, pressure, radio, laser or electrical modulesReview BOM and module specificationsBOM, wiring diagram and module datasheet.

FAQ – COMMON QUESTIONS

1. Does an ordinary mechanical processing machine require an import license?

If it is new, not listed separately and has no special function, it is usually handled by customs procedures. The actual model, function, accessories and condition must still be reviewed.

2. Are used machines handled like new machines?

No. Used machines must be reviewed under Decision 18/2019/QD-TTg and Decision 28/2022/QD-TTg regarding age, standards and inspection certificate.

3. What is the HS code for a CNC machine?

There is no single HS code for “CNC machine”. It must be identified as a CNC lathe, milling machine, machining center, laser cutter, press or other machine.

4. Is C/O required?

C/O is not always mandatory for clearance, but it is critical if the importer claims special preferential import duty under an FTA.

5. Is Vietnamese labeling required?

Imported goods must satisfy Vietnam labeling rules when circulated. If the original label is insufficient in Vietnamese, a proper supplementary label should be prepared.

6. If the machine comes with electric cabinet, motor, tools or fixtures, should they be declared together?

It depends on the shipment set, packing, function and documents. Synchronized accessories may follow the machine, while separately imported parts may require separate classification.

IMPLEMENTATION SOLUTIONS FROM TGIMEX

This article provides a review map for HS code, duties, documents and specialized policy for general mechanical processing machines. In real shipments, enterprises must still review catalogue, datasheet, model, serial number, goods condition, documents, origin and import purpose.

Pre-ETA review
  • HS, new/used policy, C/O, duties, labeling and catalogue/datasheet/model.
  • Review occupational-safety, pressure, lifting, laser, radio or other specialized triggers.
Compliance document control
  • Compare Invoice, Packing List, B/L/AWB, C/O, catalogue, nameplate photos and technical documents.
  • Prepare explanation files for HS, value, origin and goods condition.
International logistics & customs
  • Coordinate agents, carriers/airlines, ETA, pre-alert and transport documents.
  • Prepare customs declaration, handle green/yellow/red channels and inland delivery.
Post-clearance support
  • Retain shipment dossier, label documents, tax documents, C/O and technical files.
  • Support FDI, EPE, factory and multi-party project shipments.

For shipments that may involve specialized inspection, C/O or labeling requirements, enterprises should not wait until the cargo arrives to start dossier review. Minor mismatches among Invoice, Packing List, catalogue, datasheet, C/O or machine labels can trigger additional documentation, clearance delay or unplanned storage costs.

TGIMEX supports enterprises in setting up an E2E import plan: pre-ETA policy review, document control, international transportation coordination, customs declaration, clearance handling, inland delivery and post-clearance file retention.

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