The tariff classification of a “thermos cleaning wand” from China.

N158118 April 21, 2011 CLA-2-94:OT:RR:NC:N4:433 CATEGORY: Classification TARIFF NO.: 9603.90.8050 Nancy L. Abernathy Import Agent Phoenix International Freight Services Inc. 4659 World Parkway Circle St. Louis, MO 63134 RE: The tariff classification of a “thermos cleaning wand” from China. Dear Ms. Abernathy: In your letter dated April 1, 2011, on behalf of Schroeder & Tremayne, Inc., you requested a tariff classification ruling. A photo was received of the item’s preliminary representation – the size of the item is not accurate.
The item is described as a thermos cleaning wand that is used in the kitchen to clean travel coffee and tea thermoses or reusable water bottles. The item has a plastic handle with a cone shaped foam head. Covering the foam head is a 100% polyester microfiber bonnet, with an elastic opening that allows the bonnet to be removed for washing purposes. It is further stated that the microfiber bonnet may be made of 100% polyester with PE (Polyethylene) loops. Based on internet research, the thermos cleaning wand is similar to other bottle and thermos brushes composed of plastic handles with nylon fiber heads. Accordingly, classification of this item falls to heading 9603 of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS). The applicable subheading for the thermos cleaning wand, with microfiber bonnets, will be 9603.90.8050, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS), which provides for “Brooms, brushes.….: Other: Other; Other.” The rate of duty will be 2.8% ad valorem. Duty rates are provided for your convenience and are subject to change. The text of the most recent HTSUS and the accompanying duty rates are provided on World Wide Web at http://www.usitc.gov/tata/hts/. 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 Neil H. Levy at (646) 733-3036. Sincerely, Robert B. Swierupski Director National Commodity Specialist Division