CLA-2 CO:R:C:G 087137 SLR
Mr. Bill Sullivan
Bemo Shipping Co.
25 Hudson Street
New York, NY 10013
RE: Handbag
Dear Mr. Sullivan:
This ruling is in response to your letter of April 12, 1990,
on behalf of your client, Roanna Togs, Inc., requesting the
proper classification of a girl's 100 percent polypropylene
handbag under the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States
Annotated (HTSUSA). A sample was provided for our examination.
FACTS:
The submitted sample is a girl's handbag which is
manufactured of braided polypropylene strips measuring under 5mm
in width. The body of the handbag is constructed of two separate
pieces -- a top and a bottom. These pieces are joined together
by sliding the top portion of the bag down a braided strap which
attaches to the bag's bottom portion. The top portion of the bag
contains two metal grommets which allow for this movement.
ISSUE:
What is the proper classification of the instant handbag
under the HTSUSA?
LAW AND ANALYSIS:
Classification of merchandise under the HTSUSA is in
accordance with the General Rules of Interpretation (GRI's),
taken in order. GRI 1 provides that classification is determined
according to the terms of the headings and any relative section
or chapter notes.
Heading 4202, HTSUSA, provides for, among other articles,
handbags of textile materials. This heading so describes the
handbag in question.
-2-
Subheading 4202.22.4030, HTSUSA, provides for handbags with
an outer surface of textile materials, wholly or in part of
braid. While the subject handbag contains two metal grummets,
the body of the handbag and its strap, nonetheless, are of braid.
Consequently, the handbag is classifiable in subheading
4202.22.4030.
HOLDING:
The handbag in question is classifiable in subheading
4202.22.4030, HTSUSA, which provides for handbags, whether or not
with shoulder strap, including those without handle, with an
outer surface of textile materials, wholly or in part of braid,
other, other, of man-made fibers, textile category 670, dutiable
at 8.4 percent ad valorem.
The designated textile and apparel category may be
subdivided into parts. If so, visa and quota requirements
applicable to the subject merchandise may be affected. Since
part categories are the result of international bilateral
agreements which are subject to frequent renegotiations and
changes, to obtain the most current information available, we
suggest that you check, close to the time of shipment, the Status
Report On Current Import Quotas (Restraint Levels), an internal
issuance of the U.S. Customs Service, which is available for
inspection at your local Customs office.
Due to the changeable nature of the statistical annotation
(the ninth and tenth digits of the classification) and the
restraint (quota/visa) categories, you should contact your local
Customs office prior to importation of this merchandise to
determine the current status of any import restraints or
requirements.
Pursuant to your request, the submitted sample will be
returned to your office.
Sincerely,
John Durant, Director
Commercial Rulings Division