Exporting machine tools to China: licences and buyers

Machine tools and tooling: check the exact model

Start with the exact model and machining process: a laser machine, plasma cutter and interchangeable tool can have different tariff and certification treatment. The supplied codes have no entry on the cross-border e-commerce retail import list, so plan the transaction with a commercial importer rather than relying on that retail route. Check the plasma cutter CCC position before accepting an order.

Classify the exact machine or tool and check the destination country's import requirements before agreeing shipment.

Price against the Chinese tariff line

The supplied Chinese tariff rates give laser machines under HS6 845611, Chinese line 84561100, a 0% MFN rate; milling tools under HS6 820770, lines 82077010 and 82077090, have 8%. Electro-discharge machines under HS6 845630 split between 9% and 10%. For HS6 846040, line 84604010 has 12% MFN and a 6% provisional rate for 2026; line 84604020 remains 12%.

Import VAT is generally 13%, subject to the VAT Law's reduced-rate and special provisions. Its base is customs value plus customs duty plus consumption tax. Duty and VAT add to the importer's landed cost and affect the price it can offer you. The importer's customs broker or adviser confirms whether consumption tax applies to the machine or tool.

Resolve the plasma cutter CCC transition

The supplied CCC reference table matches plasma arc cutting machines to 8456401000 and records self-declaration evaluation. The subsequent announcement requires conversion to third-party certification by 31 December 2026. From 1 January 2027, these cutters must have a CCC certificate and bear the CCC mark before import or the other activities named in the announcement. Do not extend this match to every machine under HS6 845640.

Build applicable certification approvals into the sales plan and confirm the timetable with the relevant Chinese authority. We prepare registration and label work with partners in China. Before engagement, confirm who will act as importer of record and which parties hold any authorisations required for each regulated activity. Your own filings remain your responsibility.

Check technical export controls before quoting

The UK dual-use control list includes materials processing in category 2. Assess the machine's technical specification against the UK Strategic Export Control Lists before quoting; its commodity code alone does not settle whether it is controlled. An unlisted item may still require a licence under end-use controls or applicable sanctions and embargoes. Export and trade licence applications for mainland China are assessed case by case against the UK Strategic Export Licensing Criteria. Agree who will supply the technical information needed for that assessment.

Prepare the UK shipment information

The shipment and online-service guidance here concerns exports from Great Britain (England, Scotland and Wales); Northern Ireland has different EORI and dual-use export-control arrangements. For exports from Great Britain, arrange a GB EORI and the correct commodity code. You can appoint a customs representative or make the declaration yourself. If you make the declaration yourself using HMRC's online service, you must subscribe to the Customs Declaration Service (CDS). Prepare the relevant organisations' EORI numbers, the commodity code, value, weight, packaging size and type, destination and transport details, and invoice and packing-list references. The carrier needs the invoice and any required export licences or certificates. Keep UK export lines distinct from Chinese tariff lines.

Find an importer that can assess the exact model

Ask a prospective importer to review the model specification, proposed Chinese tariff line and any plasma cutter CCC requirements with its customs broker before agreeing shipment. Discuss how installation, acceptance, spare parts and technical support will work in the sale. These commercial arrangements should be clear alongside the border checks, rather than left until the equipment arrives.

Our own staff in China find and check Chinese importers and distributors for UK brands. If an importer has already approached you, our staff in China check that company before stock is sent or anything is signed. Use our export-to-China service to discuss the machine, its specification and the prospective buyer.