What Every Member of the 

Trade Community Should Know About: 

Household Articles of 

Base Metal 

AN INFORMED COMPLIANCE PUBLICATION 

JANUARY 2010 
Household Articles of Base Metal 

January 2010 

NOTICE:

This publication is intended to provide guidance and information to the trade community. 

It reflects the position on or interpretation of the applicable laws or regulations by U.S. 

Customs and Border Protection (CBP) as of the date of publication, which is shown on 

the front cover. It does not in any way replace or supersede those laws or regulations. 

Only the latest official version of the laws or regulations is authoritative. 

Publication History 

First Published: August 2005 

Reviewed with no Changes March 2006 

Revised March 2007 

Reviewed with no Changes February 2008 

Reviewed with no Changes February 2009 

Reviewed with no Changes January 2010 

PRINTING NOTE: 

This publication was designed for electronic distribution via the CBP website 

(http://www.cbp.gov) and is being distributed in a variety of formats. It was originally set 

up in Microsoft Word 2003®. Pagination and margins in downloaded versions may vary 

depending upon which word processor or printer you use. If you wish to maintain the 

original settings, you may wish to download the .pdf version, which can then be printed 

using the freely available Adobe Acrobat Reader®. 

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Household Articles of Base Metal 

January 2010 

PREFACE 

On December 8, 1993, Title VI of the North American Free Trade Agreement Implementation 

Act (Pub. L. 103-182, 107 Stat. 2057), also known as the Customs Modernization or “Mod” Act, 

became effective. These provisions amended many sections of the Tariff Act of 1930 and 

related laws. 

Two new concepts that emerge from the Mod Act are “informed compliance” and “shared 

responsibility,” which are premised on the idea that in order to maximize voluntary compliance 

with laws and regulations of U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the trade community needs to 

be clearly and completely informed of its legal obligations. Accordingly, the Mod Act imposes a 

greater obligation on CBP to provide the public with improved information concerning the trade 

community's rights and responsibilities under customs regulations and related laws. In addition, 

both the trade and U.S. Customs and Border Protection share responsibility for carrying out 

these requirements. For example, under Section 484 of the Tariff Act, as amended (19 U.S.C. 

1484), the importer of record is responsible for using reasonable care to enter, classify and 

determine the value of imported merchandise and to provide any other information necessary to 

enable U.S. Customs and Border Protection to properly assess duties, collect accurate 

statistics, and determine whether other applicable legal requirements, if any, have been met. 

CBP is then responsible for fixing the final classification and value of the merchandise. An 

importer of record’s failure to exercise reasonable care could delay release of the merchandise 

and, in some cases, could result in the imposition of penalties. 

Regulations and Rulings (RR) of the Office of International Trade has been given a major role in 

meeting the informed compliance responsibilities of U.S. Customs and Border Protection. In 

order to provide information to the public, CBP has issued a series of informed compliance 

publications on new or revised requirements, regulations or procedures, and a variety of 

classification and valuation issues. 

This publication, prepared by the National Commodity Specialist Division of Regulations and 

Rulings is entitled “Household Articles of Base Metal”. It provides guidance regarding the 

classification of these items. We sincerely hope that this material, together with seminars and 

increased access to rulings of U.S. Customs and Border Protection, will help the trade 

community to improve voluntary compliance with customs laws and to understand the relevant 

administrative processes. 

The material in this publication is provided for general information purposes only. Because 

many complicated factors can be involved in customs issues, an importer may wish to obtain a 

ruling under Regulations of U.S. Customs and Border Protection, 19 C.F.R. Part 177, or to 

obtain advice from an expert who specializes in customs matters, for example, a licensed 

customs broker, attorney or consultant. 

Comments and suggestions are welcomed and should be addressed to U.S. Customs and 

Border Protection, Office of International Trade, Executive Director, Regulations and Rulings, 

799 9th Street N.W. 7th floor, Washington, D.C. 20229-1177. 

Sandra L. Bell 

Executive Director, Regulations and Rulings 

Office of International Trade 

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INTRODUCTION..........................................................................................7

WHAT ARE TABLE, KITCHEN, COOKING, OTHER HOUSEHOLD, 

SANITARY WARES AND NON-ELECTRIC HEATING APPLIANCES?....7

DECORATIVE VS. UTILITARIAN ARTICLES ...........................................9

WHAT IS A BASE METAL?......................................................................10

THE HEADINGS........................................................................................11

Chapter 73 – Household Articles of Iron or Steel ....................................................... 11

Chapter 74 – Household Articles of Copper............................................................... 15

Chapter 76 – Household Articles of Aluminum........................................................... 16

Chapter 79 – Household Articles of Zinc.................................................................... 17

Chapter 80 – Household Articles of Tin...................................................................... 17

CLASSIFICATION OF ALLOYS ...............................................................17

CLASSIFICATION OF COMPOSITE ARTICLES .....................................18

Metal/Metal Articles .................................................................................................... 18

Glass/Metal Articles.................................................................................................... 19

FUNDAMENTALS OF CLASSIFICATION REGARDING HOUSEHOLD 

ARTICLES .................................................................................................22

SECTION XV, NOTES...............................................................................22

EXPLANATORY NOTES...........................................................................23

SETS..........................................................................................................23

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION...................................................................26

The Internet................................................................................................................ 26

Customs Regulations ................................................................................................. 26

Customs Bulletin ........................................................................................................ 26

Importing into the United States ................................................................................. 27

Informed Compliance Publications............................................................................. 27

Value Publications...................................................................................................... 28

“Your Comments are Important”................................................................................. 29

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HOUSEHOLD ARTICLES OF BASE METAL

INTRODUCTION 

This Informed Compliance Publication seeks to clarify the tariff classification of certain 

household articles. Household articles are classified in Section XV, HTS, most 

commonly in Chapter 73 (household articles of iron or steel), Chapter 74 (household 

articles of copper), Chapter 76 (household articles of aluminum), Chapter 79 (household 

articles of zinc) and Chapter 80 (household articles of tin). The other chapters do not 

have breakouts specifically for household articles. 

All of the articles classifiable in the household headings are utilitarian, rather than 

merely decorative. They are of a class or kind of goods that may be used in the home 

or “in hotels, restaurants, boarding houses, hospitals, canteens, barracks, etc.” 

However, the headings do not include articles carried on the person, such as flasks and 

metal handbags. 

Classification under a provision for household articles of base metal presumes that the 

article is not more specifically provided for elsewhere in the HTS. In fact, most common 

household articles are provided for more specifically in other headings of the HTS. For 

example, household hand tools, such as bottle openers, cheese graters, whisks, 

vegetable mashers, et al., are classifiable in heading 8205, HTS. The countertop or 

tabletop versions with a base, and other simple household mechanical appliances such 

as coffee mills and eggbeaters, are usually classified in heading 8210, HTS. All cutlery 

and flatware, such as knives, forks, and spoons, are classifiable in headings 8211, HTS, 

and 8215, HTS. Hardware is classifiable in heading 8302, HTS and lighting fittings in 

heading 9405, HTS. Vacuum flasks are provided for in heading 9617, HTS. 

All of the rulings quoted in this paper have been extracted, condensed, and in some 

cases, the wording has been altered. We do not recommend relying on the extract 

without reading the entire ruling. 

WHAT ARE TABLE, KITCHEN, COOKING, OTHER HOUSEHOLD, SANITARY 

WARES AND NON-ELECTRIC HEATING APPLIANCES? 

a) Tableware includes articles that are used on the table for the serving and the eating 

of food. It includes trays, dishes, chargers, coffee and teapots, napkin rings and 

tablecloth clips. As previously mentioned, it does not include flatware. 

b) Kitchenware includes articles that are used in the kitchen for the preparation or 

storage of food or beverages. These articles include cooking vessels, such as pots 

and pans, kitchen storage canisters for food and beverage, colanders, measuring 

cups, funnels, and plate racks. Kitchenware consists of vessels used in food 

preparation where heat is not applied to the vessel, for example, a mixing bowl. 

Cookware consists of vessels intended to be placed directly on the range, or in the 

oven, to have food cooked therein by heat. It includes pots, pans, casseroles, 

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Household Articles of Base Metal 

January 2010 

kettles, and Dutch ovens. For statistical reporting purposes, these headings require 

the number of pieces. When cookware or kitchenware is imported in sets, the 

number of pieces should be reported, counting every item in the set. A set 

containing four pots and three lids, for example, would be reported as “7” pieces. 

c) Other Household Articles include articles of base metal used in and around the 

house that are not provided for elsewhere. Therefore, correctly classifying a 

household article requires eliminating every other possible classification in the HTS. 

Most goods are classified by application of GRI 1, which states, in part, that for legal 

purposes classification shall be determined according to the terms of the headings 

and any other relative section or chapter notes. Where goods cannot be classified 

solely on the basis of GRI 1, and if the headings and legal notes do not otherwise 

require, the remaining GRI’s will be applied in order. Because of this, it is not 

possible to provide a definitive rule to the classification of household articles. 

Other household articles include ashtrays, watering cans, baskets, and garbage cans 

(dustbins). 

In HQ 959513 of June 16, 1997, on the classification of CD racks, CBP discusses the 

nature of “household articles” and determines that heading 7323 is a “use” provision, 

stating: 

The subject articles will thus fall under heading 7323 if they belong to the 

class or kind of articles principally used in the home. The Court has 

established various factors, which are indicative but not conclusive, to 

apply when determining principal use within a particular class or kind. 

They include: 

general physical characteristics, the expectation of the ultimate purchaser, 

channels of trade, environment of sale (accompanying accessories, 

manner of advertisement and display), use in the same manner as 

merchandise which defines the class, economic practicality of so using the 

import, and recognition in the trade of this use...In this instance, these 

factors are helpful in determining whether the CD racks are intended for 

home use. The CD racks are made to hold CDs. They are packaged and 

sold in a box displaying a CD rack on a shelf of a wall unit along with 

books, a candle, and what appears to be a stereo or video component. 

They are sold by a retailer directly to the consumer as a (sic) merchandise 

which would organize a collection of CDs. The consumer will generally be 

expected to store such articles within the home. The evidence presented 

indicates that the CD racks are principally used in the home and that it 

would be impracticable to give them a different use. We therefore find that, 

since the CD racks will be used for household purposes, they are 

classifiable under subheading 7323.99.9060, as other household articles 

of iron or steel. [See also United States v. Carborundum Company, 63 

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Household Articles of Base Metal 

January 2010 

C.C.P.A. 98, C.A.D. 1172, 536 F.2d 373 (1976), cert. denied, 429 

U.S.979.] 

d) Sanitary ware includes certain fixtures used to cleanse the body, such as sinks and 

baths and certain vessels used for the removal of waste, such as bedpans. It 

includes other items used exclusively in the bathroom, such as toilet paper holders 

and soap dishes. It does not include items provided for elsewhere, such as faucets. 

e) Non-electric cooking and heating appliances include gas cookers, barbecues, 

hibachis, camping stoves and space heaters that use a source of heat other than 

electricity. 

In HQ 951941 of August 18, 1992, on the classification of wickless, vented kerosene 

heaters, CBP rules: 

EN 73.21, pg. 1032, states that Heading 7321, HTSUS, "covers a group of 

appliances which meet all of the following requirements: 

(i) be designed for the production and utilization of heat for space heating, 

cooking or boiling purposes; (ii) use solid, liquid or gaseous fuel, [or other source 

of energy (e.g., solar energy)]; (iii) be normally used in the household or for 

camping." The protestant argues that the kerosene heaters fail to meet 

requirement (ii) because they use electricity. This argument is not persuasive. 

Requirement (ii) refers to the appliance's source of heat, not whether the 

appliance uses electricity to control subsidiary components, such as, an ignitor, 

sensor or pump. Thus, if the heaters in question used electricity for heating 

purposes, they would be excluded from Heading 7321, HTSUS. However, the 

heaters' sole source of heat is kerosene, and they are, therefore, classifiable 

under this heading, specifically under subheading 7321.82.10, HTSUS. 

DECORATIVE VS. UTILITARIAN ARTICLES 

Many household articles are decorated and attractive to the eye. However, utilitarian 

articles, even if highly ornamented, remain classified in the household headings.

In HQ 089258 of December 23, 1991, CBP points out that the Explanatory Notes 

to Heading 8306, which discuss statuettes and other ornaments of base metal, 

provide the following: 

This group comprises a wide range of ornaments of base metal (whether 

or not incorporating subsidiary non- metallic parts) of a kind designed 

essentially for decoration, e.g., in homes, offices, assembly rooms, [places 

of religious worship], gardens. 

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January 2010 

The group also includes, in the circumstances explained below, certain 

goods of the two following categories even though they have a utility 

value: 

(A) Household or domestic articles whether they are potentially covered by 

 specific headings for such goods (i.e., headings 73.23, 74.18 and 76.16) 

or by the "other articles" headings (e.g., in the case of articles of nickel 

and tin in particular). These household or domestic articles are generally 

designed essentially to serve useful purposes, and any decoration is 

usually secondary so as not to impair the usefulness. If, therefore, such 

decorated articles serve a useful purpose no less efficiently than their 

plainer counterparts, they are classified as domestic goods rather than in 

this group. On the other hand, if the usefulness of the article is clearly 

subordinate to its ornamental or fancy character, it should be classified in 

this group, for example, trays so heavily embossed that their usefulness is 

virtually nullified; ornaments incorporating a purely incidental tray or 

container usable as a trinket dish or ash- tray; and miniatures having no 

 genuine utility value (miniature kitchen utensils). 

In HQ 955040 of January 28, 1994, on the classification of bud vases, CBP rules that 

the only usefulness for the vases is to contain or support other decorative articles, 

namely, flowers. Therefore, the vases are classifiable in heading 8306, HTSUS. 

WHAT IS A BASE METAL? 

Section XV, Note 3. defines “base metals” under the HTS. It reads: 

Throughout the schedule, the expression “base metals” means: iron and 

steel, copper, nickel, aluminum, lead, zinc, tin, tungsten (wolfram), 

molybdenum, tantalum, magnesium, cobalt, bismuth, cadmium, titanium, 

zirconium, antimony, manganese, beryllium, chromium, germanium, 

vanadium, gallium, hafnium, indium, niobium (columbium), rhenium and 

thallium. 

This definition applies throughout the entire HTS and supercedes any other scientific or 

commercial definition. Note that the definition includes such semi-metals as antimony, 

and excludes other elements sometimes considered metals, such as arsenic.

In contrast, precious metals include only silver, gold and platinum (platinum, iridium, 

osmium, palladium, rhodium and ruthenium). Section XIV, Chapter 71, Note 4. An

alloy containing precious metal is an alloy of that precious metal if it constitutes 2% or 

more of the weight. Section XIV, Chapter 71, Note 5. 

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January 2010 

The five most important base metals for household purposes are iron or steel, 

aluminum, copper, tin and zinc. Base metals include alloys of the metal and 

intermetallic compounds, but do not include chemical compounds. In other words, a 

metal/metal compound, such as CuZn is included, but not a non-metal/metal compound, 

such as barium ferrite. Intermetallic compounds are not relevant to household articles, 

but articles made of ferrite have caused some confusion. Ferrite is used in some 

household articles, particularly when magnetized. Magnets, however, are provided for 

in heading 8505, HTS, whether household or not. 

THE HEADINGS 

Breakouts for household articles appear under the headings for iron and steel, copper, 

aluminum, zinc and tin. Chapter 73, covering household articles of iron or steel, 

contains separate headings for stoves and similar non-electric domestic appliances 

(heading 7321), table, kitchen or other household articles (heading 7323) and sanitary 

ware (heading 7324). Chapter 74, covering household articles of copper, has a heading 

for cooking or heating apparatus of a kind used for domestic purposes, non-electric 

(heading 7417) and one heading for table, kitchen or other household articles and 

sanitary ware (heading 7418). Chapter 76, covering household articles of aluminum, 

combines all of these articles into one heading for table, kitchen and other household 

articles (heading 7615). Chapter 79, covering household articles of zinc, and Chapter 

80, covering household articles of tin, combine these articles into single headings, 

heading 7907 (other articles of zinc) and heading 8007, other articles of tin. All of these 

headings are cross-referenced to each other in the Explanatory Notes. 

Chapter 73 – Household Articles of Iron or Steel 

Unless the context requires otherwise, iron and steel are considered the same metal for 

tariff purposes. Iron is an abundant element and iron and steel the most widely used 

metals. A very important source of iron is Hematite (Fe2O3). The metal rusts easily, 

and may be plated for protection, e.g., by galvanization. Section XV, Note 7(a) states 

“iron and steel, or different kinds of iron or steel, are regarded as one and the same 

metal.” The different types of iron and steel are defined in the Notes to Section XV, 

Chapter 72. Ordinarily, iron and steel attract a magnet, but some alloys, certain 

stainless steels among them, do not. Pure nickel will also attract a magnet, but 

expensive nickel is not used in household articles except as an alloying element. 

7321 Stoves, ranges, grates, cookers (including those with subsidiary boilers for 

central heating), barbecues, braziers, gas rings, plate warmers and similar 

nonelectric domestic appliances, and parts thereof, of iron or steel: 

Cooking appliances and plate warmers: 

7321.11 For gas fuel or for both gas and other fuels: 

7321.11.10 Portable 

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January 2010 

Other: 

7321.11.30 Stoves or ranges 

7321.11.60 Other 

7321.12.00 For liquid fuel 

7321.19.00 Other, including appliances for solid fuel 

Other appliances: 

7321.81 For gas fuel or for both gas and other fuels: 

7321.81.10 Portable 

7321.81.50 Other 

7321.82 For liquid fuel: 

7321.82.10 Portable 

7321.82.50 Other 

7321.89.00 Other, including appliances for solid fuel 

7321.90 Parts: 

It should be noted that heading 7321 includes only iron or steel parts. In HQ 960594 of 

October 13, 1998, CBP classifies a detachable plastic/metal handle for pans made of 

thermoplastic and containing a steel spring and clamp. The ruling states: 

We find that the metal spring, in this instance, is used to facilitate the main 

function of holding a hot pan in one's hand without getting burnt. We 

therefore conclude that the stainless steel portions are of less importance 

than the plastic portion. It is the plastic that imparts the essential 

character to the cookware handle; that attribute which strongly marks or 

serves to distinguish this handle. 

The cookware handle is classifiable in subheading 3926.90.25, HTSUS, 

as other articles of plastics and articles of other materials of headings 

3901 to 3914: Other: Handles and knobs, not elsewhere specified or 

included, of plastics. 

CBP rules on the portability of other appliances and fuel type in HQ 964803 of January 

10, 2002. In this ruling, the merchandise at issue is two propane-fueled barbecue grills. 

The grills weigh 176 pounds and 185 pounds, respectively, and have castors or wheels. 

Propane is held to be a gas fuel based on dictionary definitions: 

The Van Nostrand Reinhold Encyclopedia of Chemistry (4th ed., 1984) 

defines “propane” in pertinent part as follows: “. . . colorless gas [technical 

specifications omitted] . . . The content of propane in natural gas varies 

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Household Articles of Base Metal 

January 2010 

with the source of the natural gas, but on average is about 6%. Propane 

is also obtainable from petroleum sources. Liquefied propane is marketed 

as a fuel for outlying areas where other fuels may not be readily available 

and for portable cook stoves.... Propane and other liquefied gases are 

clean and appropriate for most heating purposes....” Hawley’s 

Condensed Chemical Dictionary (12th ed., 1993) defines “propane” in 

pertinent part as follows: “...Properties: Colorless gas, natural-gas 

odor...an asphyxiant gas.... Derivation: From petroleum and natural gas.” 

The Random House Dictionary of the English Language (unabridged ed., 

1973) defines propane as follows: “a colorless, flammable gas [symbol 

omitted] of the alkane series, occurring in petroleum and natural gas: used 

chiefly as a fuel and in organic synthesis. Also called dimethylmethane.” 

The question of whether the articles are portable is resolved using both dictionary 

definitions and trade definitions: 

“Portable” is not defined in the statute. In the absence of definitions in the 

statute, the courts have referred to other sources, including dictionary 

definitions.... While the subject grills can be moved, via their wheels, from 

place to place on one’s patio or lawn, because of their size and weight, 

they are not “easily carried or conveyed by hand” or “capable of being 

carried by hand or on the person.” The definitions do not resolve the issue 

in that the subject barbecue grills are “capable of being moved from place 

to place,” but are not “capable of being carried by hand or on the person.” 

In F.W. Myers, Inc. v. United States, 12 CIT 566, 571 (1988), where the 

court found that dictionary and encyclopedia sources did not resolve its 

inquiry, it stated: 

When a word has both broad and narrow common meaning, it is proper to 

refer to the legislative history, administrative practice, sections related to 

those in which the term appeared, and other “external aids.” [cit. omitted] 

The ruling then notes definitions of portable electric lamps in EN 85.13 and a letter 

dated November 16, 2001, from a spokesperson for the Barbecue Industry Association 

stating, in essence, that these grills are not the type that are considered by the industry 

to be portable grills. The letter states that the grills are for relatively fixed patio use and 

too big and heavy to be marketed as portable. Grills that the trade considers portable 

are designed to take along for tailgating, the beach or other away-from-home activities. 

Portables have few features other than a simple cooking grid, smaller than that of a 

typical backyard grill. The letter states the following about the grills: 

This letter is consistent with our belief that barbecue grills of the size and 

weight of the subject grills are generally not marketed as “portable.”.... 

After a careful consideration of the portability issue, we conclude that the 

subject barbecue grills are not portable grills. As stated above, they are 

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January 2010 

not “easily carried or conveyed by hand.” Further, we believe that the 

subject barbecue grills are not of the class or kind of article normally 

considered as portable. We believe that barbecue grills of the size of the 

current grills are generally not marketed as portable. Therefore, we find 

that they are classified in subheading 7321.11.60, HTSUS, as: “Stoves, 

ranges...barbecues...and similar nonelectric domestic appliances, and 

parts thereof, of iron or steel: Cooking appliances and plate warmers: For 

gas fuel or for both gas and other fuels: ...Other: Other.” 

7323 Table, kitchen or other household articles and parts thereof, of iron or steel; iron 

or steel wool; pot scourers and scouring or polishing pads, gloves and the like, of 

iron or steel: 

7323.10.00 Iron or steel wool; pot scourers and scouring or polishing pads, gloves and 

the like 

Other: 

7323.91 Of cast iron, not enameled:

7323.91.10 Coated or plated with precious metal 

7323.91.50 Other 

7323.92.00 Of cast iron, enameled 

7323.93.00 Of stainless steel 

7323.94.00 Of iron (other than cast iron) or steel, enameled 

7323.99 Other: 

Coated or plated with precious metal: 

7323.99.10 Coated or plated with silver 

7323.99.30 Other 

Not coated or plated with precious metal: 

7323.99.50 Of tinplate 

Other: 

7323.99.70 Cookingware 

7323.99.90 Other 

It should be noted that heading 7323 includes only parts of iron or steel. 

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 Enamel, Enameled, Enamelled, Vitrified enamel, Vitreous glasses, Porcelain 

Enamel is a coating of vitrifiable enamel, fused on a metal base creating a glass-like 

surface. The enamel contains silica, which, when vitrified under intense heat, turns into 

a tough, shiny surface of porcelain. Unlike enamel paint, porcelain cannot be peeled off 

the surface of cookware with a knife. Porcelain does not scratch easily, but chips when 

struck. If the question of whether a surface is enamel or porcelain arises, a sample 

must be sent to the laboratory for verification. 

Cloisonné is a technique of enameling. With cloisonné, strips of gold are attached to the 

metal base to form separate cloisons, or cells, into which different colored enamel is 

placed. Cloisonné is a process, not an article. Cloisonné articles are classified 

according to what they are. They are frequently utilitarian items, rather than merely 

decorative. 

Coated or plated - Electroplating is the deposition of a metallic coating onto an object by 

putting a negative charge onto the object and immersing it into a solution of positively 

charged ions of the metal to be deposited. 

7324 Sanitary ware and parts thereof, of iron or steel: 

7324.10.00 00 Sinks and wash basins, of stainless steel 

Baths: 

7324.21 Of cast iron, whether or not enameled: 

7324.21.10 00 Coated or plated with precious metal 

7324.21.50 00 Other 

7324.29.00 00 Other 

7324.90.00 00 Other, including parts 

Chapter 74 – Household Articles of Copper 

Malachite [Cu2(CO3)(OH)2] is one of the most important ores of copper. Copper is a 

good conductor of heat and so is used on finer cookware, which must be lined with tin to 

avoid poisoning the food. Copper alloys are brass and bronze.

7418 Table, kitchen or other household articles and parts thereof, of copper; pot 

scourers and scouring or polishing pads, gloves and the like, of copper; 

sanitary ware and parts thereof, of copper: 

Table, kitchen or other household articles and parts thereof; pot 

scourers and scouring or polishing pads, gloves and the like: 

7418.11 Pot scourers and scouring or polishing pads, gloves and the 

like: 

7418.11.20 Of copper-zinc base alloys (brass) 

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7418.11.40 Other 

7418.19 Other: 

7418.19.10 Coated or plated with precious metals 

Other: 

7418.19.21 Of copper-zinc base alloys (brass) 

7418.19.51 Other 

7418.20 Sanitary ware and parts thereof: 

7418.20.10 Of copper-zinc base alloys (brass) 

7418.20.50 Other 

Chapter 76 – Household Articles of Aluminum 

Aluminum is abundant in nature, but never found in its free form. Bauxite, the ore of 

aluminum, is processed into the pure metal. Aluminum may be cast, stamped or spun. 

Anodized aluminum has an oxidized surface. This surface has a gray, faux-pewter 

color. 

7615 Table, kitchen or other household articles and parts thereof, of aluminum; 

pot scourers and scouring or polishing pads, gloves and the like, of 

aluminum; sanitary ware and parts thereof, of aluminum: 

Table, kitchen or other household articles and parts thereof; pot 

scourers and scouring or polishing pads, gloves and the like: 

7615.11.00 00 Pot scourers and scouring or polishing pads, gloves and the 

like: 

7615.19 Other: 

Cooking and kitchen ware: 

Enameled or glazed or containing nonstick 

interior finishes: 

7615.19.10 Cast 

7615.19.30 Other 

Not enameled or glazed and not containing 

nonstick interior finishes: 

7615.19.50 Cast 

7615.19.70 Other 

7615.19.90 00 Other 

7615.20.00 00 Sanitary ware and parts thereof 

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January 2010 

Chapter 79 – Household Articles of Zinc 

Sphalerite or blende (ZnFeS) is the major mineral source of zinc. Plating thin layers of 

zinc on to iron or steel is known as galvanizing and helps to protect the iron from 

corrosion. 

7907.00 Other articles of zinc: 

7907.00.10 Articles of a type used for household, table or kitchen use; toilet 

and sanitary wares; all the foregoing and parts thereof of zinc

Chapter 80 – Household Articles of Tin 

Casserite (SnO2) is the major mineral source of tin. Its alloy, pewter, is frequently used 

to make collectibles. It is also used as a protective, non-reactive coating for steel sheet. 

Tin is the most expensive base metal. 

 

Tin is used frequently as a misnomer for steel. Articles classifiable in Chapter 80, “Tin 

and articles thereof” may only be made of tin, Sn (stannum, atomic number 50) and its 

alloys. Tinplate, usually called “tin” in ruling requests, is low carbon mild steel sheet 

electrolytically coated with tin. Tinplate is not classifiable in Chapter 80. In addition, 

some articles described in ruling requests as “tin” are not even tinplate, but unplated 

steel sheet. This misdescription is the single most frequent cause of delay in issuing a 

ruling for household articles. 

Pewter is a hard, metal alloy composed primarily of tin with varying amounts of lead, 

copper, antimony, and bismuth. Pewter used to make drinking vessels and other food 

related wares must have no lead. Modern pewter is usually over 90% tin with antimony 

and copper alloying elements. Unfortunately, some items described in ruling requests 

as pewter are only anodized gray metals, causing a delay. 

8007.00 Other articles of tin: 

8007.00.10 Articles not elsewhere specified or included of a type used for 

household, table or kitchen use; toilet and sanitary wares; all the 

foregoing not coated or plated with precious metal 

8007.00.50 Other 

CLASSIFICATION OF ALLOYS 

The various base metal headings include alloys of those metals. For example, 

headings covering copper include brass and bronze and headings for zinc include 

zamac. 

Section XV, Note 5. Classification of alloys (other than ferroalloys and master alloys as 

defined in chapters 72 and 74): 

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Household Articles of Base Metal 

January 2010 

(a) An alloy of base metals is to be classified as an alloy of the metal which 

predominates by weight over each of the other metals. 

(b) An alloy composed of base metals of this section and of elements not falling within 

this section is to be treated as an alloy of base metals of this section if the total 

weight of such metals equals or exceeds the total weight of the other elements 

present. 

(c) In this section the term "alloys" includes sintered mixtures of metal powders, 

heterogeneous intimate mixtures obtained by melting (other than cermets) and 

intermetallic compounds. 

Section XV, Note 6. Unless the context otherwise requires, any reference in the tariff 

schedule to a base metal includes a reference to alloys which, by virtue of note 5 above, 

are to be classified as alloys of that metal. 

CLASSIFICATION OF COMPOSITE ARTICLES 

Metal/Metal Articles 

When comparing an article made of two different metals, there is no determination of 

essential character. Principal weight is the sole determining factor. 

Section XV, Note 7. Classification of composite articles: 

Except where the headings otherwise require, articles of base metal (including articles 

of mixed materials treated as articles of base metal under the General Rules of 

Interpretation) containing two or more base metals are to be treated as articles of the 

base metal predominating by weight over each of the other metals. For this purpose: 

(a) Iron and steel, or different kinds of iron or steel, are regarded as one and the same 

metal; 

(b) An alloy is regarded as being entirely composed of that metal as an alloy of which, 

by virtue of note 5, it is classified. 

In HQ 950935 of April 22, 1992, a ruling on the classification of a gas grill made 

of steel and aluminum, CBP states: 

The articles in question are gas grills which consist of the following 

components: (1) an aluminum top and bottom; (2) steel legs, base, grill 

support, control panel, and shelf arms (several of the models also contain 

one or more of the following steel components: condiment rack; heat 

shield shelf brackets, side burner housing, side burner cover, side burner 

bowl/drip shield and side burner burner/venturi); and (3) additional non18
Household Articles of Base Metal 

January 2010 

metal components, which include wheels, window, heat indicator, handles, 

control knobs, casters, etc. 

The essential character determination that the EN to Section XV, Note 5, 

[now Note 7] refers to is that between the base metal components 

(aluminum and steel) versus the non-metal components, not base metal 

(aluminum) versus base metal (steel). Clearly, the essential character of 

the gas grills is represented by the base metal components. Thus, 

according to Note 5 [Now Note 7] to Section XV, the grills will be treated 

as an article of the base metal which predominates by weight over the 

other base metal. . . . 

The base metal that predominates by weight in all of the gas grill models 

is "steel." Thus, according to GRI 1 (it is unnecessary to resort to GRI 3) 

and Note 5 [now Note 7] to Section XV, they will be treated as "articles of 

steel" for tariff purposes. The gas grills are classifiable under Heading 

7321, HTSUS, which describes stoves, ranges, cookers, and barbecues of 

iron or steel. 

Glass/Metal Articles 

For a complete discussion of the classification of glass/metal articles, see Informed 

Compliance Publication New Decisions on Candle Holders v. Decorative Articles, 

revised January, 2004 and Informed Compliance Publication Lamps, Lighting and 

Candle Holders, revised March 2004 and Informed Compliance Publication, Table and 

Kitchen Glassware, revised January 2004. The following rulings illustrate many of the 

issues to be considered when comparing glass to metal. The same principles may be 

applied to metal/plastic, metal/wood, etc.: 

A) In HQ 964776 of December 19, 2001, on the classification of napkin rings, CBP 

explains that since napkin rings consisting partly of glass and partly of brass are a 

composite good, we must apply GRI 3(b): 

Under GRI 3(b), the essential character of glass jars with metal lids, glass 

boxes, plates or suncatchers with metal frames or edges, table and 

kitchen glassware on metal racks, stands or bases, and the like, is 

imparted by the glass component. ... [T]he “metal component is ancillary 

and merely serves to support the glass component.” Informed 

Compliance Publication, Decorative Glassware, revised January 2004. 

The glass component comprises the majority of the bulk and weight of a 

glass and metal article, and often has the greater consumer appeal. More 

importantly, the glass serves the predominant function of the article. For 

example, if the glass component of a glass box with a metal frame is 

removed, the metal frame alone is not a box. Similarly, a glass vessel on a 

metal stand has the essential character of glass, and is thus classified as 

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Household Articles of Base Metal 

January 2010 

such, because the glass vessel performs the article’s function of 

holding.... 

Napkin rings are utilitarian articles whose essential character is 

determined, in part, by the component that fulfills the function of holding 

napkins.... The glass component may comprise the bulk of the article and 

provide much of the commercial appeal, but where the metal component 

serves the function, the essential character is not obvious. Here, the glass 

does provide the bulk of the article and most of the commercial appeal, as 

it is the diamond-shaped pieces that define the article as the “Diamonds” 

Napkin Ring. However, the brass alone provides the article with its 

function. The glass pieces are not set into the brass rings, but rather are 

bound to them by brass wires strung through holes drilled through the 

glass and wrapped around the soldered portions of the napkin ring. 

Further, the brass rings are not merely the supporting structure. They also 

provide commercial appeal, being of substantial size and girth, and being 

concave in shape giving a more delicate, decorative look to the whole. 

Inasmuch as it is not possible to determine the essential character of this 

article, resort must be made to GRI 3(c), HTSUS. Therefore, the napkin 

ring is classifiable under the heading which occurs last in numerical order 

among those which equally merit consideration. Accordingly, it is 

classifiable in subheading 7418.19.20, HTSUS, as table, kitchen or other 

household articles of brass. It is also noted that serviette (napkin) rings 

are among the exemplars for articles of table use in EN 73.23(A)(2), which 

applies, mutatis mutandis, to heading 7418, HTSUS 

B) In HQ 089258 of December 23, 1991 on the classification of a glass potpourri jar 

with a filigreed metal lid, CBP concludes: 

It is our position that the essential character of the potpourri jars is 

represented by the glass body, not the metal lid or base. Though the 

weight and value of the metal parts are greater than the glass parts, the 

glass bowl provides more of the surface area and the function and use of 

this merchandise is clearly represented by the glass holder. The product 

is marketed as a potpourri bowl or holder; the portion of the product which 

is known as the potpourri bowl or holder consists exclusively of glass. The 

item would be a potpourri bowl or holder whether it has the lid/base or not. 

C) In HQ 961935 of September 25, 1998, on the classification of a spice rack with glass 

jars, CBP states: 

The spice rack and spice jars are goods put up in sets for retail sale.... 

Recently, there have been several Court decisions on "essential 

character" for purposes of GRI 3(b). Better Home Plastics Corp. v. United 

States, 916 F. Supp. 1265 (CIT 1996), affirmed 119 F.3d 969 (Fed. Cir. 

20
Household Articles of Base Metal 

January 2010 

1997), involved the classification of shower curtain sets, consisting of an 

outer textile curtain, inner plastic magnetic liner, and plastic hooks. . . . 

The CIT found that the plastic liner performed the indispensable function 

of keeping water inside the shower and therefore held that the plastic liner 

imparted the essential character upon the set. In its decision affirming the 

CIT decision, the CAFC stated: 

The [CIT] carefully considered all of the facts, and...concluded that the 

indispensable function of keeping water inside the shower along with the 

protective, privacy and decorative functions of the plastic liner, and the 

relatively low cost of the sets all combined to support the decision that the 

plastic liner provided the essential character of the sets.... The court's 

decision did not rely solely, or even hinge, on the indispensability of the 

water-retaining function. The decision was substantially based on the 

importance of the other functions as well as the cost of the entire set. 

[119 F.3d at 971] 

Based on the foregoing, we conclude that in an essential character 

analysis for purposes of GRI 3(b), the role of the constituent materials or 

components in relation to the use of the goods is generally of primary 

importance, but the other factors listed in EN Rule 3(b)(VIII) should also 

be considered, as applicable. In this case, the "indispensable function" 

...of the set is to store spices. The glass jar component directly performs 

that function (i.e., spices are stored inside the jars), whereas the function 

of the stand is subsidiary, to hold the glass jars. The jars could store 

spices without the stand, but the stand could not store spices without the 

jars. Moreover, the other factors listed in EN Rule 3(b)(VIII), support the 

conclusion that the glass jar component establishes the essential 

character of the set. Insofar as quantity is concerned, there is one stand 

and there are 12 jars. Bulk and weight also appear to support the glass 

jar component as providing the essential character. In regard to value, we 

note that the stated value of the set is relatively small, and that in both 

Better Home Plastics decisions, the Court took note of value as a factor in 

the determination of essential character.... Accordingly, we conclude that 

the essential character of the merchandise is provided by the glass jar 

component. 

D) In HQ 953197 of April 28, 1993, on the classification of glass salt shakers with metal 

lids, CBP explains: 

From the description provided, it appears glass comprises the largest 

portion of the shaker’s area, weighs more than the metal lid, and functions 

as a container for the condiments. In addition, the glass is the article's 

most distinguishing characteristic. (see HQ 086166 of 4/9/90, HQ 089258 

of 12/23/91) 

21
Household Articles of Base Metal 

January 2010 

While the metal lid does filter salt and pepper, this is one function of the 

entire article, and only one of the many factors to be considered when 

determining the entire article's character. Because of the many 

characteristics the glass portion contributes to the whole article, we find 

that glass gives the whole shaker its character. Therefore, the shaker is 

classifiable under subheading 7013.39.20 HTSUS. 

FUNDAMENTALS OF CLASSIFICATION REGARDING HOUSEHOLD ARTICLES 

General Rules of Interpretation (GRI's) 

Classification under the HTSUSA is made in accordance with the General Rules of 

Interpretation (GRI's). The systematic detail of the harmonized system is such that 

virtually all goods are classified by application of GRI 1, that is, according to the terms of 

the headings of the tariff schedule and any relative Section or Chapter Notes. In the 

event that the goods cannot be classified solely on the basis of GRI 1, and if the 

headings and legal notes do not otherwise require, the remaining GRI's may then be 

applied. [HQ 963610, et al.] 

A) The Notes to Section XV, excerpted below, list what is not covered. Most of these 

items, such as paints, pyrophoric alloys, headgear, vehicles, measuring instruments, 

and ammunition, have little or no relation to household articles. 

SECTION XV, NOTES 

1. This section does not cover: 

 

 (d) Umbrella frames or other articles of heading 6603; 

 

 (e) Goods of chapter 71 (for example, precious metal alloys, base metal clad with 

 precious metal, imitation jewelry); 

 (f) Articles of section XVI (machinery, mechanical appliances and electrical goods); 

(k) Articles of chapter 94 (for example, furniture, mattress supports, lamps and 

 lighting fittings, illuminated signs, prefabricated buildings); 

 (l) Articles of chapter 95 (for example, toys, games, sports equipment); 

 (m) Hand sieves, buttons, pens, pencil-holders, pen nibs or other articles of 

 chapter 96 (miscellaneous manufactured articles); or 

 (n) Articles of chapter 97 (for example, works of art). 

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Household Articles of Base Metal 

January 2010 

Note that heading 6603 includes accessories. 

The expression “clad” in the phrase “metal clad with precious metal" throughout the tariff 

schedule means material made with a base of metal upon one or more surfaces of 

which there is affixed by soldering, brazing, welding, hot-rolling or similar mechanical 

means a covering of precious metal. Except where the context otherwise requires, the 

expression also covers base metal inlaid with precious metal. Section XIV, Note 7. 

For example, the US ten-cent coin, quarter-dollar coin, and half-dollar coin are all "clad" 

coins, produced from three metal strips that are bonded together and rolled to the 

required thickness. The face of these coins is 75 percent copper and 25 percent nickel 

and the core, which is visible along the edges of the coins, is composed of pure copper. 

Hand sieves described in the ENs as “used for separating solid substances according to 

particle size” does not include colanders or similar kitchen equipment used to strain 

water from vegetables, etc. 

In HQ 963777 of April 2, 2001, CBP classifies ordinary kitchen strainers in heading 

7323, HTSUS. In that ruling, CBP states: “This determination is supported by the EN’s, 

excerpted above. We note that the strainers retain the character of iron or steel articles. 

This determination is consistent with HQ 964751 dated March 26, 2001, wherein we 

found steel strainers to be classified in subheading 7323.99.90, HTSUS.” 

EXPLANATORY NOTES 

In interpreting the headings and subheadings, CBP looks to the Harmonized 

Commodity Description and Coding System Explanatory Notes (EN). Although not 

legally binding, they provide a commentary on the scope of each heading of the 

HTSUS. It is CBP’s practice to follow, whenever possible, the terms of the ENs when 

interpreting the HTSUS. See T.D. 89-90, 54 Fed. Reg. 35127, 35128 

 (August 23, 1989). [HQ 964945, et al.] 

It has therefore been the practice of CBP to follow, whenever possible, the terms of the 

Explanatory Notes when interpreting the HTSUS. It is not easy to give rules for 

classification when dealing with an “articles” provision. Generally, an article should be 

classified in the provision that most specifically describes the item. 

SETS 

The following rulings concern the classification of sets of household articles. In HQ 

950609, CBP establishes the idea that a set of household articles fails GRI 3, when it 

includes storage containers. Although this ruling did not involve articles of metal, the 

policy has been adopted to those headings. 

A) In HQ 950609 of January 7, 1992, CBP classifies a "27 piece ultimate organizer set" 

in a revolving stand. The merchandise included plastic measuring cups, measuring 

spoons, tools and holder, a steel whisk, glass spice bottles with plastic caps, and a 

23
Household Articles of Base Metal 

January 2010 

can opener, a bottle opener and a vegetable peeler of plastic and steel. While the 

item was commercially known as a set, it failed GRI 3(b). 

The articles included in the kitchen organizer are used for divergent 

purposes. Although the articles classifiable as plastic kitchenware, 

handtools or knives relate to the preparation or serving of food or drink, 

the spice bottles are principally used to store food. Since the components 

of the kitchen organizer are put together to carry out several different 

activities or to meet various needs, they do not satisfy criterion (b) in 

Explanatory Note X to Rule 3(b). Since the kitchen organizer fails as a set, 

we return to GRI 1 to classify each component of the kitchen organizer 

separately. 

B) In HQ 954946 of October 19, 1993, CBP classifies a typical cookware set, 

containing pots and pans of stainless steel, clad steel/aluminum and plastic handles. 

In that ruling, CBP states: 

In PC 879449, the subject set of cookware was held to be classifiable 

under subheading 7323.93.00, HTSUS. You have requested that we 

review that ruling because you state it was based upon the merchandise 

being wholly of stainless steel.... 

In part, section XV, note 5 [Now Note 7], HTSUS, states that, ...except 

where the headings otherwise require, articles of base metal (including 

articles of mixed materials treated as articles of base metal under the 

General Rules of Interpretation) containing two or more base metals are to 

be treated as articles of the base metal predominating by weight over 

each of the other metals. Based upon section XV, note 5 [Now Note 7], 

HTSUS, because the stainless steel material predominates by weight over 

the other materials which make up the cookware in the cookset, it is our 

position that the 8-piece set of cookware is classifiable under subheading 

 7323.93.00, HTSUS. 

C) NY I82582 of June 4, 2002, addresses the classification of a set containing an 

aluminum pancake maker, a batter dispenser and a food chopper. In that ruling, the 

food chopper is held to be unrelated to the other items in the “set” and CBP states: 

The pancake maker is a double-sided folding pan with a non-stick surface. 

The batter is poured onto the pan, cooked on one side for a few seconds 

and turned over to cook the other side. The aluminum appears to be cast. 

The applicable subheading for the pancake maker will be 7615.19.10, 

HTSUS, which provides for table, kitchen or other household articles...of 

aluminum, other, cooking and kitchen ware, enameled or glazed or 

containing nonstick interior finishes, cast. 

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Household Articles of Base Metal 

January 2010 

The batter dispenser is a plastic container with a hole in the bottom. The 

hole can be opened and closed by a simple plunger to dispense even 

amounts of batter. 

The applicable subheading for the batter dispenser will be 3924.10.40, 

HTSUS, which provides for tableware, kitchenware, other household 

articles and toilet articles, of plastics: tableware and kitchenware: other. 

The food chopper is a plunger-operated mechanical appliance with 

rotating blades. The appliance is used on a table or chopping board to 

chop, mince or dice food. 

The applicable subheading for this product will be 8210.00.00, HTSUS, 

which provides for hand-operated mechanical appliances, weighing 10 kg. 

or less, used in the preparation, conditioning or serving of food or drink. 

D) NY I81351 of May 29, 2002 involves a 100-piece Kitchen-in-the-box. It contains an 

8-piece aluminum cookware set, a 5-piece steel bakeware set, a 59-piece set of 

plastic accessories, a 15-piece cutlery set, a 6-piece nylon tool set, and a 7-piece 

textile set. Because of the plastic storage accessories and of the textile articles, it is 

held not to be a set for tariff purposes. The classification of the textile required 

further information. The aluminum cookware set is classified in heading 7615.19.30, 

HTSUS, which provides for table, kitchen or other household articles and parts 

thereof, of aluminum, other, cooking and kitchen ware, enameled or glazed or 

containing non-stick interior finishes, other. 

The bakeware set is classified in heading 7323.99.70, HTSUS, which provides for 

table, kitchen or other household articles and parts thereof, of iron or steel, other, 

other, not coated or plated with precious metal, other, cookingware. The set of 

plastic accessories was classified in heading 3924.10.40, HTSUS, which provides 

for tableware, kitchenware, other household articles, of plastics...tableware and 

kitchenware...other. The cutlery set is classified in heading 8211.10.0000, (HTS), 

which provides for knives with cutting blades, serrated or not, sets of assorted 

articles. 

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Household Articles of Base Metal 

January 2010 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION 

The Internet 

The home page of U.S. Customs and Border Protection on the Internet’s World Wide 

Web, provides the trade community with current, relevant information regarding CBP 

operations and items of special interest. The site posts information -- which includes 

proposed regulations, news releases, publications and notices, etc. -- that can be 

searched, read on-line, printed or downloaded to your personal computer. The web site 

was established as a trade-friendly mechanism to assist the importing and exporting 

community. The web site also links to the home pages of many other agencies whose 

importing or exporting regulations that U.S. Customs and Border Protection helps to 

enforce. The web site also contains a wealth of information of interest to a broader 

public than the trade community. For instance, the “Know Before You Go” publication 

and traveler awareness campaign is designed to help educate international travelers. 

 

The web address of U.S. Customs and Border Protection is http://www.cbp.gov

Customs Regulations 

The current edition of Customs and Border Protection Regulations of the United States 

is a loose-leaf, subscription publication available from the Superintendent of 

Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402; telephone (202) 

512-1800. A bound edition of Title 19, Code of Federal Regulations is also available for 

sale from the same address. All proposed and final regulations are published in the 

Federal Register, which is published daily by the Office of the Federal Register, National 

Archives and Records Administration, and distributed by the Superintendent of 

Documents. Information about on-line access to the Federal Register may be obtained 

by calling (202) 512-1530 between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. Eastern time. These notices are 

also published in the weekly Customs Bulletin described below. 

Customs Bulletin 

The Customs Bulletin and Decisions (“Customs Bulletin”) is a weekly publication that 

contains decisions, rulings, regulatory proposals, notices and other information of 

interest to the trade community. It also contains decisions issued by the U.S. Court of 

International Trade, as well as customs-related decisions of the U.S. Court of Appeals 

for the Federal Circuit. Each year, the Government Printing Office publishes bound 

volumes of the Customs Bulletin. Subscriptions may be purchased from the 

Superintendent of Documents at the address and phone number listed above. 

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Household Articles of Base Metal 

January 2010 

Importing into the United States 

This publication provides an overview of the importing process and contains general 

information about import requirements. The current edition of Importing Into the United 

States contains much new and revised material brought about pursuant to the Customs 

Modernization Act (“Mod Act”). The Mod Act has fundamentally altered the relationship 

between importers and U.S. Customs and Border Protection by shifting to the importer 

the legal responsibility for declaring the value, classification, and rate of duty applicable 

to entered merchandise. 

The current edition contains a section entitled "Informed Compliance." A key component 

of informed compliance is the shared responsibility between U.S. Customs and Border 

Protection and the import community, wherein CBP communicates its requirements to 

the importer, and the importer, in turn, uses reasonable care to assure that CBP is 

provided accurate and timely data pertaining to his or her importation. 

Single copies may be obtained from local offices of U.S. Customs and Border 

Protection, or from the Office of Public Affairs, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, 

1300 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20229. An on-line version is 

available at the CBP web site. Importing into the United States is also available for 

sale, in single copies or bulk orders, from the Superintendent of Documents by calling 

(202) 512-1800, or by mail from the Superintendent of Documents, Government Printing 

Office, P.O. Box 371954, Pittsburgh, PA 15250-7054. 

Informed Compliance Publications 

U.S. Customs and Border Protection has prepared a number of Informed Compliance 

publications in the “What Every Member of the Trade Community Should Know 

About:...” series. Check the Internet web site http://www.cbp.gov for current 

publications. 

27
Household Articles of Base Metal 

January 2010 

Value Publications 

Customs Valuation under the Trade Agreements Act of 1979 is a 96-page book 

containing a detailed narrative description of the customs valuation system, the customs 

valuation title of the Trade Agreements Act (§402 of the Tariff Act of 1930, as amended 

by the Trade Agreements Act of 1979 (19 U.S.C. §1401a)), the Statement of 

Administrative Action which was sent to the U.S. Congress in conjunction with the TAA, 

regulations (19 C.F.R. §§152.000-152.108) implementing the valuation system (a few 

sections of the regulations have been amended subsequent to the publication of the 

book) and questions and answers concerning the valuation system. 

Customs Valuation Encyclopedia (with updates) is comprised of relevant statutory 

provisions, CBP Regulations implementing the statute, portions of the Customs 

Valuation Code, judicial precedent, and administrative rulings involving application of 

valuation law. A copy may be purchased for a nominal charge from the Superintendent 

of Documents, Government Printing Office, P.O. Box 371954, Pittsburgh, PA 15250-

7054. This publication is also available on the Internet web site of U.S. Customs and 

Border Protection. 

The information provided in this publication is for general information 

purposes only. Recognizing that many complicated factors may be 

involved in customs issues, an importer may wish to obtain a ruling under 

CBP Regulations, 19 C.F.R. Part 177, or obtain advice from an expert 

(such as a licensed Customs Broker, attorney or consultant) who 

specializes in customs matters. Reliance solely on the general 

information in this pamphlet may not be considered reasonable care.

Additional information may also be obtained from U.S. Customs and Border Protection 

ports of entry. Please consult your telephone directory for an office near you. The 

listing will be found under U.S. Government, Department of Homeland Security. 

28
Household Articles of Base Metal 

January 2010 

“Your Comments are Important” 

The Small Business and Regulatory Enforcement Ombudsman and 10 regional 

Fairness Boards were established to receive comments from small businesses about 

Federal agency enforcement activities and rate each agency’s responsiveness to small 

business. If you wish to comment on the enforcement actions of U.S. Customs and 

Border Protection, call 1-888-REG-FAIR (1-888-734-3247). 

REPORT SMUGGLING 1-800-BE-ALERT OR 1-800-NO-DROGA 

Visit our Internet web site: http://www.cbp.gov

29