CLA-2-84:RR:NC:4:102 A82273
Mr. Ken Bargteil
Kuehne & Nagel
7483 "H" Candlewood Road
Hanover, MD 21076
RE: The tariff classification of brass ball valves from Italy
Dear Mr. Bargteil:
In your letter dated March 27, 1996, on behalf of your client, Rubinetterie Utensilerie Bonomi S.R.L., you requested a tariff classification ruling.
The items at issue are a series of full part, hot forged brass ball valves, manually operated, ranging in size from 1/4" to 2" inner diameter. In your letter you stated that your client believes that the correct classification of these valves should be under item 8481.80.9010, Harmonized Tariff Schedules (HTS). We note that this provision covers ballcock mechanisms. A ballcock is a float operated water control valve used in the water tank of toilets. It has no similarity to the ball valves that your client intends on importing.
In addition it was noted that the sample submitted with your inquiry had no indication on it of the country of origin. All valves imported into the United States must, per the Customs Regulations (19 CFR Part 134) be permanently, legibly and conspicuously marked, in English, with the country of origin.
This may be accomplished by either die-stamping "Italy" on the body of the valve; including the country name in the forging process (similar to the valve size marking); or by inserting a washer-like ID ring under the handle retaining nut. The ID ring would have "Made In Italy" marked on it's circumference.
The applicable subheading for the brass ball valves will be 8481.80.1085, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTS), which provides for taps, cocks, valves and similar appliances, hand operated, of copper (or alloy thereof), having a pressure rating of 125 psi or greater, ball type. The rate of duty will be 5 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 Karl J. Riedl at 212-466-5493.
Sincerely,
Roger J. Silvestri
Director
National Commodity
Specialist Division