CBP Ruling N017447 — The tariff classification of SKF Wheel End Monitor from Germany

Tariff classification

Headings: 8531

Product description

The item concerned is a SKF Wheel End Monitor (WEM). This device was developed to monitor and warn/signal of possible damage to the wheel bearings of a truck or trailer. This item is described as an electronic circuit potted onto a double washer that goes over two adjacent wheel studs on a truck/trailer wheel hub. It is installed at the outboard side of the wheel rim and is available for trailer axles and front axles. The purpose of the Wheel End Monitor is to detect bearing defects/problems. The item monitors vibration and warns of excessive vibration (indicating a problem with the bearings) via a visual light indicator that flashes red or green. The device uses an accelerometer to “listen” for vibrations and noise. This warning system assists in reducing the threat of a “wheel off” and helps to properly time wheel bearing replacement. By monitoring the performance of the wheel bearings, unnecessary maintenance can be avoided. Wheel bearings will only be replaced when they reach the end of their life cycle as indicated by the WEM.

CBP rationale

The applicable subheading for the Wheel End Monitor will be 8531.80.0050, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS), which provides for “Electrical sound or visual signaling apparatus: Other apparatus: Other”.

Full text

N017447 October 10, 2007 CLA-2-8531.80.0050:OT:RR:NC:N1:112 CATEGORY: Classification TARIFF NO.: 8531.80.0050 Joseph R. Hoffacker Barthco International Inc. 5101 S. Broad Street Philadelphia, PA 19112-1404 RE: The tariff classification of SKF Wheel End Monitor from Germany Dear Mr. Hoffacker: In your letter dated September 20, 2007 on behalf of SKF USA Inc., you requested a tariff classification ruling. The item concerned is a SKF Wheel End Monitor (WEM). This device was developed to monitor and warn/signal of possible damage to the wheel bearings of a truck or trailer. This item is described as an electronic circuit potted onto a double washer that goes over two adjacent wheel studs on a truck/trailer wheel hub. It is installed at the outboard side of the wheel rim and is available for trailer axles and front axles. The purpose of the Wheel End Monitor is to detect bearing defects/problems. The item monitors vibration and warns of excessive vibration (indicating a problem with the bearings) via a visual light indicator that flashes red or green. The device uses an accelerometer to “listen” for vibrations and noise. This warning system assists in reducing the threat of a “wheel off” and helps to properly time wheel bearing replacement. By monitoring the performance of the wheel bearings, unnecessary maintenance can be avoided. Wheel bearings will only be replaced when they reach the end of their life cycle as indicated by the WEM. The applicable subheading for the Wheel End Monitor will be 8531.80.0050, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS), which provides for “Electrical sound or visual signaling apparatus: Other apparatus: Other”. The rate of duty will be 1.3%. 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 Steve Pollichino at 646-733-3008. Sincerely, Robert B. Swierupski Director, National Commodity Specialist Division

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