HS Code 8485.20

3D printers (additive manufacturing, plastics)

Import duty, VAT & classification for South African importers

General customs duty 0%
Import VAT 15%
HS heading 8485.20
Statistical unit unit

HS code 8485.20 covers 3D printers (additive manufacturing, plastics) — for example FDM desktop 3D printers, resin (SLA) printers. South Africa applies an indicative general customs duty of 0%, on top of which 15% import VAT is charged.

Worked example: landed cost on R100,000 of goods

Customs value (CIF)R100,000
Customs duty (0%)R0
Import VAT (15% on ATV)R16,500
Estimated landed costR116,500

VAT is charged on the Added Tax Value (customs value + 10% upliftment for non-SACU imports + duties). Figures exclude clearing, freight and any anti-dumping/safeguard duty. For an exact, all-in figure use the Duty & VAT Calculator.

Where HS 8485.20 sits in the tariff

Classification is decided at heading level first. Heading 8485 is “Machines for additive manufacturing”. If your product is closer to one of the neighbouring subheadings below, that line — and its duty rate — is the one that applies.

  • 8485.10 Machines for additive manufacturing; by metal deposit
  • 8485.20 Machines for additive manufacturing; by plastic or rubber deposit — this page
  • 8485.30 Machines for additive manufacturing; by plaster, cement, ceramics or glass deposit
  • 8485.80 Machines for additive manufacturing; by other than metal, plastic, rubber, plaster, cement, ceramics or glass deposits
  • 8485.90 Machines for additive manufacturing; parts

Harmonised System HS 2022 nomenclature. See the whole of Chapter 84 →

Calculate full landed cost Check anti-dumping & permits Find a clearing agent

Watch HS 8485.20 for changes

Duty rates, anti-dumping measures and permit rules change by Government Gazette. We’ll email you if this code’s status shifts.

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Data current as of 2026-08-06. Indicative general (MFN) rate — real duty can differ at 8-digit level, under trade agreements (SADC, EU-EPA) and by Government Gazette. This is guidance, not a tariff determination under s47(9) of the Customs & Excise Act, 1964. Verify against the current SARS Tariff Book.

8408.20 Diesel engines for vehicles 0% duty + 15% VAT 8409.91 Parts for petrol engines (pistons, valves) 0% duty + 15% VAT 8413.70 Centrifugal pumps (water pumps) 0% duty + 15% VAT 8414.51 Table, floor, wall & ceiling fans (≤125 W) 5% duty + 15% VAT 8414.80 Air compressors (other than fan/vehicle types) 0% duty + 15% VAT 8415.10 Air conditioners (window / split, self-contained) 0% duty + 15% VAT

Frequently asked questions

What is the import duty on 3d printers (additive manufacturing, plastics) in South Africa?

HS code 8485.20 (3D printers (additive manufacturing, plastics)) attracts an indicative general customs duty of 0% in South Africa, plus 15% import VAT charged on the Added Tax Value. Verify the exact rate in the current SARS Tariff Book.

What is the HS code for fdm desktop 3d printers?

The Harmonised System heading for 3d printers (additive manufacturing, plastics) is 8485.20. South Africa uses an 8-digit tariff line based on this heading — confirm the precise 8-digit code in the SARS Tariff Book before importing.