CLA-2-84:RR:NC:MM:106 C88579
Mr. Danny Eckel
The Campbell Group
100 Production Drive
Harrison, Ohio 45030
RE: The tariff classification of pressure washers from Italy.
Dear Mr. Eckel:
In your letter dated May 18, 1998 you requested a tariff
classification ruling. You submitted descriptive literature with
your request.
The articles in question are various models of pressure
washers used to clean house exteriors, cars, decks, boats, lawn
equipment, sidewalks, gutters, patio furniture, and so on, and
professional models used for industrial cleaning of heavy
equipment. The pressure washers consist basically of either
electric or gas powered, motor driven pumps which force water
through a hose and nozzle to attain a high pressure spray to
clean the surface.
You suggest that the various models of pressure washers are
similar to steam or sand blasting machines and similar jet
projecting machines and should be classified in the subheading
associated with these appliances. We do not agree with this
position. Steam or sand blasting machines and similar jet
projecting machines are generally used for applying an abrasive
medium, such as sand, metal pellets, blasted steam or the like,
on to a surface in such a way as to essentially remove a surface
layer. The pressure washers in question do not impact the
surfaces they clean in such a way nor do they apply an abrasive
medium to render a new surface.
The applicable subheading for the pressure washers will be
8424.89.7090, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States
(HTS), which provides for other mechanical appliances for
projecting, dispersing or spraying liquids. The rate of duty
will be 2.2 percent ad valorem.
This ruling is being issued under the provisions of Part 177
of the Customs Regulations (19 C.F.R. 177).
A copy of the ruling or the control number indicated above
should be provided with the entry documents filed at the time
this merchandise is imported. If you have any questions
regarding the ruling, contact National Import Specialist
Patrick J. Wholey at 212-466-5668.
Sincerely,
Robert B. Swierupski
Director,
National Commodity
Specialist Division