The tariff classification of an aerial platform from Finland

NY D89197 April 6, 1999 CLA-2-84:RR:NC:1:103 D89197 CATEGORY: Classification TARIFF NO.: 8428.90.0090 Mr. Gary Stanley AEI 2711 Turnpike Industrial Drive Middletown, PA 17057 RE: The tariff classification of an aerial platform from Finland Dear Mr. Stanley: In your letter dated March 9, 1999 on behalf of Ladder Towers Inc. you requested a tariff classification ruling. The Vema model 443TF hydraulically operated aerial platform is specially designed for firefighting and rescue operations. The unit basically consists of a welded steel frame with H-type outriggers, a steel turntable, three articulated booms, a stainless steel platform, hydraulic power and safety systems, and electro-hydraulic controls. The frame enables the unit to be mounted onto a truck body after importation, while the outriggers provide stability and allow the unit to be leveled on uneven surfaces. The turntable incorporates a slewing ring powered by a hydraulic motor and reduction gear, allowing the booms and platform to rotate 360 degrees in either a clockwise or counter-clockwise direction. The booms are capable of raising the platform to a height of 145 feet. The platform is 1 meter long and 2 meters wide, has a safety railing 1.1 meters in height, and can hold up to 400 kilograms. It contains an automatic leveling system and features a sliding door for easy rescue operations. The platform also features two water spray nozzles and a water/foam monitor for unmanned firefighting, as well as an intercom for communication with ground personnel. Power to operate the model 443TF is provided by a hydraulic piston pump driven from the vehicle’s power take-off, while the electrical power needed to operate the controls is supplied from the vehicle battery. Boom extension and rotation are controlled by means of control panels located at the turntable and in the working platform. The applicable subheading for the model 443TF aerial platform will be 8428.90.0090, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTS), which provides for other lifting, handling, loading or unloading machinery: other machinery: other: other. The rate of duty will be free. 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 212-637-7027. Sincerely, Robert B. Swierupski Director, National Commodity Specialist Division