The tariff classification of studded tire chain from Norway.

NY 891670 November 10, 1993 CLA-2-73:S:N:N1:103 891670 CATEGORY: Classification TARIFF NO.: 7315.20.1000; 7315.20.5000; 7315.81.0000 Ms. Barbara Klausman James J. Boyle & Co. 7505 N.E. Ambassador Pl., Suite B Portland, OR 97220 RE: The tariff classification of studded tire chain from Norway. Dear Ms. Klausman: In your letter dated October 15, 1993 on behalf of Quality Chain Company you requested a clarification of a previous ruling, Ruling NY 875806 dated July 10, 1992, concerning studded tire chain. This ruling classified studded tire chain made in Norway in subheadings 7315.20.1000 or 7315.20.5000, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTS), depending on the diameter of the chain link. You have now asked whether studded tire chain could be classified in the provision for stud link chain in subheading 7315.81.0000, HTS. Studded tire chain and stud link chain are two totally different chains. Studded tire chain is used to prevent vehicles from skidding. This type of chain consists of links with a stud projecting outward from each link. The stud digs into ice or snow and thus provides a vehicle with better traction. Stud link chain is used in marine applications. Such chains consist of an oval-shaped link with a cross-piece, referred to as a stud, across the opening of each link for additional strength. Unlike studded tire chain, the stud in stud link chain does not project out from the link but simply crosses the link, thus forming a link shaped like the letter O with a bar across the middle. Studded tire chain is not composed of stud links as described above, and thus studded tire chain cannot be classified in subheading 7315.81.0000, HTS. Instead, studded tire chain is properly classifiable in the provision for skid chain in subheadings 7315.20.1000 or 7315.20.5000, HTS, depending on diameter, as indicated in Ruling Letter NY 875806 of July 10, 1992. 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