CLA-2-73:RR:NC:1:118 D85513

Mr. Bruce MacKinnon
1/36 Ashby Ave.
St. Heliers
Auckland, New Zealand

RE: The tariff classification of a threaded insert from New Zealand.

Dear Mr. MacKinnon:

In your letter dated October 27, 1998, you requested a tariff classification ruling. The subject item is described as a threaded insert, type FTT Standard Flange. Its thread size is 1/2". The materials are either mild steel or stainless steel. The insert would be machined on a lathe and placed into a pre-drilled hole. The threaded mandrel of an insert tool is screwed into the insert. The tool works with a force on the insert which compresses it into the job. You can now screw a nut into the insert.

The applicable subheading for the threaded insert, type FTT Standard Flange, will be 7318.19.0000, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTS), which provides for screws, bolts, nuts, coach screws, screw hooks, rivets, cotters, cotter pins, washers and similar articles, of iron or steel: threaded articles: other. The duty rate will be 5.7% ad valorem.

Consideration was given to classifying this product under subheading 7318.16.00, HTS, as you have suggested. However, this insert does not meet the exemplars to the Explanatory Notes for nuts in that subheading. Furthermore, nuts in that subheading are designed to be engaged with a bolt.

This ruling is being issued under the provisions of Part 177 of the Customs Regulations (19 C.F.R. 177).

A copy of this 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 Kathy Campanelli at 212-466-5492.

Sincerely,

Robert B. Swierupski
Director
National Commodity
Specialist
Division