D88859 D8 Ruling Active

The tariff classification of a multi-purpose pocketknife with an attached split-key ring and chain from China.

Issued March 10, 1999 by U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

Tariff classification

HTS codes: 8211.93.0030

Headings: 8211

GRI rules applied: GRI 3(a), GRI 3(b), GRI 3(c)

Product description

The pocketknife incorporates the following components: a stainless steel knife blade, a metal implement with screwdriver tip, pair of scissors and a nail file. A metal split key ring is attached to one end of the pocketknife by a metal link chain. The instant merchandise comprises a composite article with various components. The headings at issue refer to part only of the materials or substances contained in the composite good, and according to GRI 3(a) are to be regarded as equally specific, thereby making resort to GRI 3(b) necessary. As each of the components contribute equally to the use of the article, classification is determined by reference to GRI 3(c), which provides for the classification under the heading which is last among those which equally merit consideration. Accordingly, the multi-functional pocket is classifiable as a pocket knife within subheading 8211.93.0030.

CBP rationale

The applicable subheading for the multi-purpose knife with key ring attached will be 8211.93.0030, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTS), which provides for Other: Knives having other than fixed blades: Pen knives, pocket knives and other knives which have folding blades.

Full text

NY D88859 March 10, 1999 CLA-2-82:RR:NC:115 D88859 CATEGORY: Classification TARIFF NO.: 8211.93.0030 Mr. Arlen T.Epstein Tompkins & Davidson 1515 Broadway New York, N.Y 10036-8901 RE: The tariff classification of a multi-purpose pocketknife with an attached split-key ring and chain from China. Dear Mr. Epstein; In your letter dated March 4, 1999 you requested a tariff classification ruling on behalf of your client Avon Products, Inc. The sample submitted (PP189635) is a multi-purpose pocketknife with an attached split-key ring and chain. The pocketknife incorporates the following components: a stainless steel knife blade, a metal implement with screwdriver tip, pair of scissors and a nail file. A metal split key ring is attached to one end of the pocketknife by a metal link chain. The instant merchandise comprises a composite article with various components. The headings at issue refer to part only of the materials or substances contained in the composite good, and according to GRI 3(a) are to be regarded as equally specific, thereby making resort to GRI 3(b) necessary. As each of the components contribute equally to the use of the article, classification is determined by reference to GRI 3(c), which provides for the classification under the heading which is last among those which equally merit consideration. Accordingly, the multi-functional pocket is classifiable as a pocket knife within subheading 8211.93.0030. The applicable subheading for the multi-purpose knife with key ring attached will be 8211.93.0030, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTS), which provides for Other: Knives having other than fixed blades: Pen knives, pocket knives and other knives which have folding blades. The rate of duty will be 3 cents each + 5.4% 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 Melvyn Birnbaum at 212-637-7017. Sincerely, Robert B. Swierupski Director, National Commodity Specialist Division

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