The tariff classification of alternators from South Africa

NY 892406 December 1, 1993 CLA-2-85:S:N:N3:113 892406 CATEGORY: Classification TARIFF NO.: 8501.61.0000 Mr. Tony Collini John S. Connor, Inc. 33 South Gay Street P.O. Box 1717 Baltimore, MD 21203-1717 RE: The tariff classification of alternators from South Africa Dear Mr. Collini: In your letter dated November 15, 1993, on behalf of Wepco, Inc., you requested a tariff classification ruling. The merchandise is an alternator used in a motor vehicle. This alternator is also known as an "underhood power converter," or "Mobile Power." This item is an AC generator which operates off the power of the vehicle's engine. It is not, however, the alternator for the vehicle but is a separate device installed along side it. It is used to operate power tools. Alternators are rated in volt-amperes. You indicate that the item operates at 1400 Watts. For purposes of this ruling, we are assuming that the rating would therefore be 1400 VA. The applicable subheading for the alternator will be 8501.61.0000, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTS), which provides for AC generators (alternators) of an output not exceeding 75 kVA. The rate of duty will be 3 percent ad valorem. 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