CLA-2-84:S:N1:106-890191
Mr. Dave Walser
Arthur J. Humphreys Div.
Border Brokerage Co., Inc.
P.O Box 249
Sumas, WA 98295
RE: The tariff classification of a tree pruning machine from
Switzerland
Dear Mr. Walser:
In your letter dated September 3, 1993, on behalf of Mr. Tom
Mrion of Everson, WA, you requested a tariff classification ruling.
You have enclosed descriptive and illustrative literature.
The imported product is a tree pruning machine that is used in
the forestry industry to enhance the value of timber. Your
submission shows two
models of the machine: the KS 31S is listed as a tree pruning machine with
normal equipment, and the KS 31F is listed as a tree pruning machine with
wireless operating. The machine has been designed to operate up to a working
height of 66 feet.
The tree pruning machine can be used for all straight coniferous trees
having a trunk diameter of 4 to 12 inches. Numerous operations which, in the
past, could be carried out by hand only, can now be performed by means of the
tree pruning machine. Examples include dry pruning, green pruning (in the
case of the Oregon pine and other types of trees), obtaining ornamental
twigs, seed collection, reducing the risk of forest fires, improved drying of
forest paths through the elimination of drip water, etc.
The tree pruner is operational when the machine is clamped to the tree
trunk, the rocker arms are closed, the operating height is set, the engine is
engaged, and the gear lever is operated. The automatic pruning operation
will then start with the machine climbing up the tree to a pre-set height,
sawing off branches close to the trunk, and then reversing itself and
returning back down the tree to its starting point. The bark suffers no
damage either from the chassis or from the sawing device itself. The tree pruning machine consists of three basic elements, the hinged
seamless steel tubular frame with a climbing chassis; the power unit
consisting of a 2-stroke gasoline engine and an automatic gear assembly; and
the sawing device that consists of a special plane toothed chain, a special
cutter bar and an automatic lubricating system.
The applicable subheading for the tree pruning machine will be
8436.80.0020, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTS), which
provides for forestry machinery. The rate of duty will be free.
This ruling is being issued under the provisions of Section 177 of the
Customs Regulations (19 C.F.R. 177).
A copy of this ruling letter should be attached to the entry documents
filed at the time this merchandise is imported. If the documents have been
filed without a copy, this ruling should be brought to the attention of the
Customs officer handling the transaction.
Sincerely,
Jean F. Maguire
Area Director
New York Seaport