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May 5, 2025

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Basics of GST

GST Rates and HSN Code 8485 for Other Machinery Parts

When India introduced the Goods and Services Tax (GST), it brought forth a substantial change to the entire network of indirect taxes in the country. Beginning July 1st, 2017, GST unified the taxes by substituting many previous central and state levies. GST compliance requires businesses to assign suitable Harmonised System of Nomenclature (HSN) codes to their goods and services. HSN code 8485, which comes under the “Other Machinery Parts” classification, maintains its relevance for industrial operations besides facilitating mechanical manufacturing and production equipment industries.

This publication examines HSN code 8485 by analyzing its applicability scenarios and GST tax rates as well as explaining input tax credits, sector usage and subsequent requirements for compliance. The goal of this endeavor is to establish complete clarity about tax and compliance for companies and their experts so they can file accurate reports with the law.

Understanding HSN Code 8485

1. What is an HSN Code?

The Harmonized System of Nomenclature (HSN) works as an internationally recognized method for product identification through numbered names that guide trade transactions. The World Customs Organization developed this system through its 8485 Convention as a means to achieve standardized taxation methods and trade record maintenance.

In India, HSN codes are used under GST to categorize goods systematically. Each code consists of:

2 digits: Chapter

4 digits: Heading

6 digits: Sub-heading

8 digits: Further classification (used for domestic purposes)

2. Overview of HSN Code 8485

HSN code 8485 falls under Chapter 84, which deals with “Nuclear reactors, boilers, machinery and mechanical appliances; parts thereof.” The specific heading 8485 refers to:

"Machines for additive manufacturing, parts thereof; other machinery parts not specified or included elsewhere in this chapter."

Key inclusions:

Additive manufacturing machines (e.g., 3D printers)

Components and parts of such machinery

Miscellaneous mechanical parts not classified under any other heading in Chapter 8

This heading acts as a residual category for mechanical components that don’t have a defined classification elsewhere.

GST Rates Applicable on HSN Code 8485

1. GST Council Framework

Products under the GST Council system are assigned tax rates within five different categories which include 0%, 5%, 12%, 18% and 28%. Product characteristics together with its final use and economic factors determine the tax rate which will apply.

2. GST Rate for HSN 8485

As per the latest notifications by the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC):

The GST Rate for HSN code 8485 is 18% (as of the last update).

This includes:

Parts of machines for additive manufacturing

Other machinery parts not specifically covered under other headings.

Note: Any changes in GST rates are notified through periodic updates from the CBIC and must be tracked regularly for compliance.

Examples of Products Under HSN 8485

Understanding what falls under HSN 8485 can be confusing due to its residual nature. Here are some illustrative examples:

Product Description	Classification Under HSN	GST Rate
Components of 3D printers	8485	18%
Machinery spare parts not covered elsewhere	8485	18%
Parts of packaging or labeling machines	8485 (if not specified)	18%
Industrial joints and fittings	8485	18%

Note: If a part can be more precisely classified under another heading (e.g., gear parts under HSN 8483), it must be classified there instead of under 8485.

Input Tax Credit (ITC) on Machinery Parts (HSN 8485)

1. Eligibility for ITC

One of the core benefits under GST is the seamless flow of Input Tax Credit. Businesses purchasing machinery parts under HSN 8485 at 18% GST can claim ITC if:

The parts are used for business purposes

The recipient is a registered GST taxpayer.

A valid tax invoice is issued by the supplier.

2. Restrictions on ITC

Under Section 17(5) of the CGST Act, ITC is not available for:

Personal use goods

Goods used in the construction of immovable property (if not plant/machinery)

Free samples or lost/stolen goods

Hence, ITC for HSN 8485 components is available when used in manufacturing processes or in relation to taxable supplies.

Industry-Wise Use of HSN Code 8485

1. Manufacturing Industry

Used extensively in:

Automobile manufacturing units

Electronics and electrical equipment

Industrial production lines

2. 3D Printing & Additive Manufacturing

This emerging field is directly addressed under HSN 8485, with both machines and parts being included.

3. Packaging and Processing Units

Spare parts for machinery used in bottling, packing, and labeling often fall under this heading, especially if generic and not specified under other subcategories.

4. Engineering and Tooling Workshops

These businesses frequently procure machine parts that are best classified under 8485, particularly when the part is a general mechanical component.

Compliance and Documentation

1. Invoice Format

Ensure that the following is mentioned on the invoice:

Correct HSN Code: 8485

Description of goods

Quantity and unit

Value

GST rate (18%)

Tax amount split between CGST and SGST/IGST

2. GST Returns

Correct classification impacts:

GSTR-1: Outward supplies

GSTR-3B: Tax payable and ITC

Annual Return (GSTR-9): Summary of HSN codes used during the financial year

Incorrect HSN classification may lead to:

Mismatch in data

Loss of ITC

Notices from GST authorities

Clarifications from CBIC and AAR Rulings

In several Advance Ruling Authority (AAR) cases, disputes have arisen about the correct classification of parts under HSN 8485 versus more specific headings like 8419, 8422, 8483, etc.

For example:

AAR Gujarat ruled that generic mechanical components not classified elsewhere are correctly taxed under 8485 at 18%.

AAR Karnataka held that additive manufacturing equipment and their parts are rightly placed under HSN 8485.

Hence, businesses must carefully analyze the function and nature of the item before assigning HSN 8485.

Import and Export Considerations

1. Custom Duties and IGST

When importing machinery parts:

Basic Customs Duty (BCD) may apply

IGST is levied at the applicable GST rate of (18% for 8485)

Exporters can:

Export under Letter of Undertaking (LUT) without payment of tax

Or export with IGST and claim the refund later

Proper HSN classification is essential for customs clearance and duty assessment.

Challenges in Classification

1. Overlapping Headings

Many mechanical parts that can be confused between:

HSN 8483 (Transmission shafts, bearings)

HSN 8481 (Taps, valves)

HSN 8485 (Other mechanical parts)

Solution: Refer to explanatory notes issued by WCO and CBIC for clarity.

2. Frequent GST Changes

Rates and HSN applicability may change through:

GST Council Meetings

Notifications from CBIC

Best Practice: Subscribe to CBIC updates and seek clarification through Advance Rulings where needed.

Best Practices for Businesses

Consult Classification Experts: Engage tax professionals for product classification.

Use ERP Systems to automate classification and billing processes.

Maintain HSN-wise Stock Records: Helps in audits and return filings.

Stay Updated: Regularly review CBIC and WCO guidelines.

Conclusion

HSN code 8485 serves as a crucial classification for "Other Machinery Parts" within India’s GST regime. Under the standard GST rate of 18% HSN code 8485 includes all non-specific products from Chapter 84. Businesses need to show proper caution when applying this classification because wrong categorization can produce tax disagreements as well as financial penalties. The keys to achieving GST compliance include using expert support along with complete documentation and regular updates on tax regulations.

HSN 8485 will gain increasingly relevant status within evolving industries because of technological advancements, especially 3D printing. The proper implementation of this system creates dual advantages for manufacturing businesses and trading companies through compliance standards and cost savings.

FAQs

1. What is covered under HSN code 8485?

HSN code 8485 covers:

Machines for additive manufacturing (like 3D printers)

Parts of such machines

Other generic machinery parts that are not specifically classified under any other heading in Chapter 84

This code acts as a residual category for miscellaneous mechanical parts used across industries.

2. Which rate of GST applies to goods belonging to HSN classification 8485?

GNR 8485 goods fall under GST tax category with a tax rate of 18%. The 18% GST applies equally to additive manufacturing components and unclassified mechanical parts found within Chapter 84 of HSN definitions.

3. Can Input Tax Credit (ITC) be claimed on purchases under HSN 8485?

Yes, Input Tax Credit (ITC) can be claimed on purchases under HSN 8485, provided:

The goods are used for business or manufacturing purposes

The buyer is a registered GST taxpayer.

Proper invoices are maintained and GST returns are filed on time.me

4. How do I determine if my product falls under HSN 8485 or a different heading like 8483 or 8419?

The classification depends on the nature, function, and specific use of the product:

Use 8483 for transmission shafts, bearings, etc.

Use 8419 for heat exchange units or cooling systems.

Use 8485 only when the product is not specified under any other heading.

Consulting CBIC guidelines, WCO explanatory notes, or seeking an Advance Ruling can help clarify the classification.

5. Is HSN 8485 applicable for imported machinery parts as well?

Yes. The same HSN code is used for both domestic transactions and imports. When importing machinery parts classified under HSN 8485:

Basic Customs Duty (BCD) and IGST at 18% are applicable

Proper classification is essential for smooth customs clearance and duty calculation.

6. Can machinery parts used for construction purposes be classified under HSN 8485?

Machinery parts used in construction equipment may fall under HSN 8485 only if they are not specifically covered under another HSN and qualify as general mechanical parts. However, if they are structural or civil construction materials (like beams, scaffolding), they would fall under a different chapter entirely.

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