Bookbinding machinery, including book-sewing machines, and parts thereof
2 declarable lines
Heading 8440 covers bookbinding machinery, including book-sewing machines, and the parts for that machinery. It splits into two lines: the machines themselves under 8440.10.00.00 and parts under 8440.90.00.00, both duty free under the general (MFN) rate.
Products in this heading
- Book-sewing machines
- Bookbinding machines for folding, gathering or casing-in books
- Perfect binding lines for softcover books
- Book trimming and cutting machinery used in binding lines
- Case-making machines for hardcover book covers
- Parts for bookbinding and book-sewing machines
How to choose the right subheading
- Decide whether the machine binds, sews or finishes books; if it does, it stays in 8440.
- Check if the item is a complete machine or a part: machines go under 8440.10.00.00 and parts under 8440.90.00.00.
- Confirm the item is not a general sewing machine, which would fall in 8452.
- Confirm the item is not paper converting, cutting or printing machinery, which belongs in 8441 or 8443.
Often confused with
- Heading 8452Sewing machines other than book-sewing machines
Heading 8452 covers general sewing machines and specifically excludes book-sewing machines of 8440.
- Heading 8441Machinery for making up paper or paperboard, such as carton folding and gluing machines
Paper converting machinery sits in 8441, while 8440 is limited to bookbinding.
- Heading 8441Paper cutting machines of all kinds
Heading 8441 covers cutting machines of all kinds for paper products.
- Heading 8443Printing machinery
Presses and printers that put ink on paper are classified in 8443, not with binding equipment.
- Heading 8439Machinery for making pulp or making or finishing paper
Papermaking and finishing equipment before binding is classified in 8439.
Frequently asked questions
What is the HTS code for bookbinding machinery?
Bookbinding machinery, including book-sewing machines, is classified under 8440.10.00.00, with a general (MFN) duty rate of Free.
What is the duty on parts for bookbinding machines?
Parts for bookbinding and book-sewing machines fall under 8440.90.00.00 and carry a general (MFN) duty rate of Free.
How do I classify a book-sewing machine versus a regular sewing machine?
A machine used for sewing books is classified in 8440.10.00.00 at a general (MFN) rate of Free, while other sewing machines are excluded from this heading and fall in heading 8452.
Guide written from the official schedule text. Rates quoted are general (MFN) rates; check the line page for trade agreement rates and the classification of your exact product.