Section XIV of the HTSUS

Thank you for joining us for our series on classification. Two weeks ago, we explored the articles contained in Section XIII of the HTSUS. Today, we will study the various commodities covered in Section XIV of the HTSUS. Having a good general knowledge of the products covered in each section and chapter will expedite the classification process and improve accuracy of your classifications.

Section XIII Answer
Correct Answer: 6913.10.5000
See: NY G81399

Section XIV covers just one chapter. Chapter 71 contains precious and semi precious stones, precious metals, pearls, diamonds, stones, silver and gold jewelry. Products of this chapter may require special marking Importers of goods in this chapter should spend time reading the Chapter Notes and Explanatory Notes. Chapter Note 4 defines the precious metals as silver, gold and platinum. Chapter Note 9 defines jewelry as any small object of personal adornment or article normally carried on the person such as rings, bracelets, necklaces, earrings, tiepins, compacts and pill boxes. The Explanatory Notes to Chapter 71 makes clear that "cladding" and "plating" are two distinct processes of applying a metal to another surface.

Question
What is the correct classification for a platinum plated, sterling silver set of silverware, which contains a dozen each of forks, knives and spoons?

Join us next week for the answer to this week’s classification question and a discussion of Section XV of the HTSUS. If there are any specific commodities or sections of the HTSUS that you would like to see discussed in this series, please feel free to post a comment or send your suggestions to wizard@boskage.com