The tariff classification of a sticker vending machine from Japan

NY C81390 November 21, 1997 CLA-2-84:RR:NC:1:103 C81390 CATEGORY: Classification TARIFF NO.: 8476.89.0000 Mr. John F. McManus Itochu International Inc. 335 Madison Avenue New York, NY 10017 RE: The tariff classification of a sticker vending machine from Japan Dear Mr. McManus: In your letter dated October 24, 1997 you requested a tariff classification ruling. The Atlus Print Club (Version Two) is a freestanding machine used in arcades, convenience stores, malls and other public areas for vending a sheet of personalized stickers. Each sheet consists of sixteen identical stickers comprised of a photographic image printed within a pre-designed border and measuring 3/4 inch by 1 inch. Initially, the appropriate amount of money is deposited into the machine's coin slot. The customer then selects the desired border from among 27 choices which are stored on a ROM cartridge in the machine (additional interchangeable cartridges containing more borders are also available). If desired, the customer can also select a brief message which will appear on the stickers. A Mitsubishi model CCD-200 color video camera incorporated in the unit is utilized to take a picture of the customer, which can be viewed on a 20- inch monitor housed in the machine. In 30 seconds the machine automatically prints and dispenses the still picture and border as a sheet of stickers which can be peeled off and placed on various objects. The Atlus Print Club (Version Two) is 26 inches wide, 37 inches deep, and 81 inches high. It weighs 409 pounds, and will incorporate a booster stool so that small children will be within the view of the camera. The applicable subheading for the Atlus Print Club (Version Two) will be 8476.89.0000, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTS), which provides for other automatic goods- vending machines. The rate of duty will be 1.6 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 Alan Horowitz at 212-466-5494. Sincerely, Robert B. Swierupski Director, National Commodity Specialist Division