CLA-2-54:RR:NC:N3:351 L84043
Troy D. Crago
Import Specialist
ATICO International USA, Inc.
501 South Andrews Avenue
Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33301
RE: The tariff classification of a sewing kit from China
Dear Mr. Crago:
In your letter dated March 28, 2005, you requested a tariff classification ruling.
The submitted sample is identified as Item Number C038LA00151 - Sewing Kit Set. The set is packaged in a plastic bubble pack that you indicate is intended for retail sale. Included in the set are fifty rolls of polyester thread, two sewing needles, a pair of scissors, two safety pins, two metal buttons, and two plastic buttons. The kit is not designed as a travel kit.
The yarns appear to be filaments with a final “Z” twist. If they are dressed for sewing thread, they will meet the tariff definition for sewing thread found in Note 5 to Section XI, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTS) and will be classified in heading 5401, which provides for sewing thread of man-made filaments. If, however, the yarns do not meet the tariff definition of sewing thread, they would be classifiable in heading 5406, which provides for man-made filament yarn (other than sewing thread), put up for retail sale. (The yarn meets the tariff definition of "put up for retail sale" found in Note 4, Section XI, HTS.)
In the opinion of this office, the 59 items constitute a “set put up for retail sale" pursuant to General Rule of Interpretation 3(b), HTS, resulting in their classification by the component which gives the set its essential character; further, it is our opinion that the yarn/thread is the item that imparts the essential character to this set.
If the yarns satisfy the tariff definition of sewing thread, the applicable subheading for the sewing kit will be 5401.10.0000, HTS, which provides for sewing thread of man-made filaments, whether or not put up for retail sale: Of synthetic filaments. The duty rate will be 11.4 percent ad valorem.
If the yarns do not satisfy the tariff definition of sewing thread, the applicable subheading for the sewing kit will be 5406.10.0040, HTS, which provides for man-made filament yarn (other than sewing thread), put up for retail sale, of polyesters. The general rate of duty will be 7.5 percent ad valorem.
Both of the above tariff provisions fall within textile category designation 200. Quota and visa status are the result of international agreements that are subject to frequent renegotiations and changes. To obtain the most current information as to whether quota and visa requirements apply to this merchandise, we suggest that you check, close to the time of shipment, the “Textile Status Report for Absolute Quotas” available at our web site at www.cbp.gov. In addition, you will find current information on textile import quotas, textile safeguard actions and related issues at the web site of the Office of Textiles and Apparel, at www.otexa.ita.doc.gov.
The sample will be returned as requested.
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 Mitchel Bayer at 646-733-3102.
Sincerely,
Robert B. Swierupski
Director,
National Commodity
Specialist Division