The tariff classification of the “BB-8” robot from China

N265725 June 23, 2015 CLA-2-95:OT:RR:NC:N4:424 CATEGORY: Classification TARIFF NO.: 9503.00.0073 Mr. Ryan Lejeal Sphero 4772 Walnut St. Suite 206 Boulder, CO 80301 RE: The tariff classification of the “BB-8” robot from China Dear Mr. Lejeal: In your letter dated June 12, 2015, you requested a tariff classification ruling. Photographs and description of the “BB-8” robot were received with your inquiry. “BB-8” is an app-enabled remote controlled toy robot depicting the droid character from the upcoming “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” movie. The “BB-8” robot is constructed of a high-impact resistant poly-carbonate material and contains two motors, a number of processors, accelerometers and gyroscopes that allows the robot to drive in any direction and be controlled from a smartphone or other smart device with Bluetooth capability. A unique aspect of the item is the spherical body of “BB-8,” which measures approximately 2 ¾” in diameter. It is topped with a 1” tall dome-shaped robotic head that stays in place via the use of magnets without falling off while the body rolls around freely. The robot also contains multiple color LEDs, allowing one to pick and choose from hundreds of colors in which to illuminate the item. “BB-8” is powered by two rechargeable lithium polymer batteries. In addition to the robot, it is packaged and sold with an induction charging base, the charging base’s USB to micro USB cable, a cleaning cloth, and a quick start guide. “BB-8” is principally designed for the amusement of children 8 years of age and older. The applicable subheading for “BB-8” will be 9503.00.0073, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS), which provides for “Tricycles, scooters, pedal cars and similar wheeled toys…dolls, other toys…puzzles of all kinds; parts and accessories thereof… ‘Children’s products’ as defined in 15 U.S.C. § 2052: Other: Labeled or determined by importer as intended for use by persons: 3 to 12 years of age.” The rate of duty will be Free. 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 James Forkan at [email protected]. Sincerely, Gwenn Klein Kirschner Director National Commodity Specialist Division