HS 8515Machinery · Japan

Welding Machines & Equipment - HS 8515 classification, duty and landed cost - Import into Japan

Duty and tax snapshot for importing machinery (HS 8515) into Japan. Typical MFN duty ~2%, JCT 10% on CIF + duty. Decision-support only - confirm the 10-digit line and preferential status with your broker.

Typical duty

JCT

10%

Total taxes / CIF

12.2%

Worked landed-cost example

USD 40,000 FOB parcel of machinery (HS 8515) shipped to Japan.

FOB valueUSD 40,000

Origin chargesUSD 600

FreightUSD 3,200

InsuranceUSD 200

CIFUSD 44,000

Import duty @ 2%USD 880

JCT @ 10%USD 4,488

Destination inlandUSD 800

Landed cost ≈ USD 50,168

Run your own numbers in the Landed Cost by HS & Country tool.

Sample HS codes

Code	Description
8515.31	Machines, fully or partly automatic, arc welding
8548.00	Electrical parts of machinery, n.e.s.

Japan duty regime

MFN tariffs on a mix of ad valorem and specific rates. Preferential rates under CPTPP, RCEP, Japan-EU EPA, Japan-US Trade Agreement, Japan-UK CEPA and ASEAN JAEPA.

Customs notes

· Japan uses a 9-digit Statistical Code (HS 6 + 3 national digits) administered by Customs and METI.
· NACCS is the electronic customs declaration system used at all ports and airports.
· AEO (Authorised Economic Operator) status gives fast-track clearance and deferred duty payment.
· Consumption tax base = CIF + customs duty. Registered importers can reclaim JCT as input tax.

Frequently asked questions

What is the typical import duty on machinery (HS 8515) into Japan?

Japan applies an MFN duty of about 2% on HS chapter 8515 at the 6-digit line. National tariff schedules add 2–4 further digits, so the exact rate can shift once you confirm the 8- or 10-digit code. Preferential rates under FTAs (MFN tariffs on a mix of ad valorem and specific rates) may reduce this to 0% for qualifying origins.

How is JCT calculated on imports of machinery in Japan?

Japan charges JCT at 10% on the CIF value plus duty. Consumption tax on CIF + duty

What is the landed cost of a USD 40,000 FOB shipment of machinery into Japan?

On a USD 40,000 FOB parcel with ~8% freight and 0.5% insurance, CIF works out to USD 44,000. Applying 2% duty and 10% JCT brings total taxes to about USD 5,368 (~12.2% of CIF). Landed at buyer's warehouse ≈ USD 50,168.

Which HS code should I use for machinery in Japan?

Start with the 6-digit international HS heading - for example 8515.31 (Machines, fully or partly automatic, arc welding). Japan customs then requires the full national code (8- to 10-digit national tariff line). Confirm the exact line with your licensed customs broker before filing.

Which Incoterm is best for shipping machinery to Japan?

Most importers into Japan prefer CIF or CFR for sea freight so the seller arranges main-carriage transport, while retaining control of destination clearance. DDP shifts import duty and JCT to the seller - attractive to buyers but often priced with a risk premium. Compare all 11 Incoterms with our Landed Cost by HS & Country tool.

What documents does Japan customs need to clear HS 8515?

Japan uses a 9-digit Statistical Code (HS 6 + 3 national digits) administered by Customs and METI. Regulated commodities may also require a health certificate, phytosanitary certificate or import licence depending on the exact HS line.