HS 911440 Plates and bridges

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What products does HS 911440 cover?

This subheading covers "Plates and bridges" specifically designed for use in clock and watch movements, as defined by the World Customs Organization's Harmonized System Nomenclature. These are essential components that form the structural framework of a timepiece, providing support for gears, springs, and other intricate mechanisms. Official definitions from sources like the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) and the EU's TARIC database confirm that this classification applies to precisely manufactured metal parts that constitute the main body or supporting structures of horological instruments.

What falls outside HS 911440?

The following products are excluded from HS 911440: general-purpose metal plates or bridges not specifically intended for clock or watch movements, such as those used in industrial machinery or electronic devices. Also excluded are finished clocks and watches themselves, or their individual components that are not structural plates or bridges, like hands, dials, or mainsprings. For instance, a metal plate for a circuit board or a bridge for a mechanical engine would be classified under different headings based on their specific function and material composition.

What are common classification mistakes for HS 911440?

A common error is misclassifying general metal components as clock or watch plates and bridges when they lack the specific design and intended use for horological movements. This often arises from overlooking the precise wording of the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System, which emphasize the specialized nature of these parts. For example, a metal bracket for a larger assembly might be mistakenly classified here if its primary function is not within a timepiece, violating General Rule of Interpretation 1 which states classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes.

How should importers classify products under HS 911440?

The correct procedure for classifying products under HS 911440 involves a thorough examination of the product's intended use and design. Importers and customs brokers must verify that the "plates and bridges" are specifically manufactured for incorporation into clock or watch movements. Consulting the official tariff schedules of the importing country, such as the USITC HTS or the UK Trade Tariff, and reviewing the Explanatory Notes to the Harmonized System is crucial to ensure accurate classification and avoid potential penalties.

How is the duty calculated for products under HS 911440?

A shipment of 1,000 precision brass plates for watch movements, with a declared customs value of $5,000 USD, would attract a US duty of $175.00. This is calculated using the Most Favored Nation (MFN) duty rate of 3.5% ad valorem, as published in the USITC Harmonized Tariff Schedule. The calculation is: 3.5% of $5,000 USD = $175.00. It is essential to consult the current HTS for the exact rate applicable at the time of import.

Which trade agreements reduce duties for HS 911440?

Several free trade agreements may reduce the applicable duty rate for HS 911440, including the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Under USMCA, originating goods from Canada and Mexico can enter the United States duty-free. To claim this preference, a self-certified origin statement is typically required. While not directly applicable to this specific component, broader agreements like the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) might offer reduced rates for eligible developing countries, though specific product eligibility and documentation requirements vary significantly by country.

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