CBP Issues New Informed Compliance Publication on Base Metal Mountings and Fittings
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has issued a new informed compliance publication (ICP) entitled, What Every Member of the Trade Community Should Know About: Base Metal Mountings and Fittings.
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According to CBP, this publication was prepared by the National Commodity Specialist Division and seeks to clarify the tariff classification of base metal mountings, fittings, and similar articles of heading 8302 of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS).
Contents of new ICP on HTS 8302. This ICP includes information on the fundamentals of classification regarding mountings and fittings; the definition of a base metal; the classification of alloys; parts of general use; descriptions of mountings and fittings; a list of items that mountings and fittings are suitable for (e.g., furniture, doors, etc.); and classification advice, often based on CBP rulings, for various tariff numbers under each of the subheadings within HTS 8302.
HTS 8302 covers goods that are commonly known as "hardware", but does not extend to goods forming an essential part of the structure of the article. Heading 8302 covers a variety of base metal articles, the majority of which are commonly known in the trade as "hardware".
According to the Explanatory note (EN) for 8302, this heading covers general purpose classes of base metal accessory fittings and mountings, such as are used largely on furniture, doors, windows, coachwork, etc. Goods within such general classes remain in this heading even if they are designed for particular uses (e.g. door handles or hinges for automobiles). The heading does not extend to goods forming an essential part of the structure of the article, such as window frames or swivel devices for revolving chairs.
(CBP notes that this publication relies heavily on prior CBP rulings to illustrate classification procedures and decisions. All rulings quoted in this ICP have been extracted, condensed, or summarized. CBP does not recommend relying on the extract without reading the entire ruling. The rulings cited are intended to illustrate CBP's position on various classification issues; in addition, they represent only a portion of the rulings published on articles of this heading.)
(CBP cautions that the information in this ICP is for general information purposes only. Recognizing that many complicated factors may be involved in customs issues, an importer may wish to obtain a ruling under CBP Regulations (19 CFR Part 177) or obtain advice from an expert (such as a licensed Customs Broker, attorney or consultant) who specializes in customs matters. Reliance solely on the general information in this pamphlet may not be considered reasonable care.)
CBP ICP on base metal mountings and fittings (issued 06/06) available at http://www.cbp.gov/linkhandler/cgov/toolbox/legal/informed_compliance_pubs/icp082.ctt/icp082.pdf