CLA-2-39:OT:RR:NC:N2:421
Ms. Jessica Miserendino
AFL Global
170 Ridgeview Center Drive
Duncan, SC 29334
RE: The tariff classification of a plastic dust cap with a lanyard and removable tether from France
Dear Ms. Miserendino:
In your letter dated August 8, 2014, you requested a tariff classification ruling.
A drawing was included with your letter. The dust cap is composed of polypropylene plastic, brass lugs and rivets, a stainless steel chain and tether, and a rubber seal. The function of the dust cap is to protect the mating surface of a fiber optic connector and to provide protection from environmental conditions when the connector is not in use. The chain and tether is to prevent the loss of the dust cap, and the rubber seal is used to create a watertight closure.
You suggest that the dust caps, which are said to be specifically designed for use in fiber optic connectors, be classified in subheading 8538.90.80, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS), which provides for parts suitable for use solely or principally with the apparatus of heading 8535, 8536 or 8537. However, the dust caps are not considered to be parts, for tariff classification purposes, of fiber connectors. Furthermore, the dust caps are specifically provided for in subheading 3923.50.0000, HTSUS.
The applicable subheading for the dust caps will be 3923.50.0000, HTSUS, which provides for stoppers, lids, caps and other closures, of plastics. The rate of duty will be 5.3 percent ad valorem.
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 Joan Mazzola at [email protected].
Sincerely,
Gwenn Klein Kirschner
Director
National Commodity Specialist Division