What Every Member of the 

Trade Community Should Know About: 

Classification of 

Molds and Their 

Parts Under the 

HTSUS 

AN INFORMED COMPLIANCE PUBLICATION 

AUGUST 2008
Classification of Molds and Their Parts Under the HTSUS 

August 2008 

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: January 2001 

Revised January 2004 

Reviewed With No Changes May 2005 

Revised May 2006 

Revised August 2008 

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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Classification of Molds and Their Parts Under the HTSUS 

August 2008 

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 "Classification of Molds and Their Parts Under the HTSUS”. 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 the Executive Director, 

Regulations and Rulings, Office of International Trade, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, 

1300 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, (Mint Annex), Washington, D.C. 20229. 

Sandra L. Bell 

Executive Director, Regulations and Rulings 

Office of International Trade 

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Classification of Molds and Their Parts Under the HTSUS 

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INTRODUCTION TO THE CLASSIFICATION OF MOLDS ........................8

CLASSIFICATION TOOLS........................................................................10

INVOICING ................................................................................................11

EXCLUSIONS............................................................................................11

Excluded By Virtue of Material of Composition .......................................................... 11

Precluded from Classification in Heading 8480, by Virtue of ENs’ Exclusionary 

Language ................................................................................................................... 12

Excluded By Virtue of Material Being Worked On ...................................................... 13

CONFUSING TERMINOLOGY..................................................................14

OTHER ISSUES ........................................................................................15

Antiques ..................................................................................................................... 15

Condition as Imported ................................................................................................ 15

Excess/Spare Molds................................................................................................... 16

Lens Mold................................................................................................................... 16

Preliminary Tabletting Molds ...................................................................................... 17

Sets Containing Molds ............................................................................................... 17

TERMS COMMONLY USED IN MOLDING INDUSTRY ...........................18

DISCUSSION OF SPECIFIC TARIFF PROVISIONS................................21

Molding Boxes for Metal Foundry – Subheading 8480.10, HTSUS............................ 22

Mold Bases – Subheading 8480.20, HTSUS ............................................................. 22

Molding Patterns – Subheading 8480.30, HTSUS ..................................................... 22

Molds for Metal or Metal Carbides – Subheadings 8480.41, HTSUS and.................. 22

8480.49, HTSUS ........................................................................................................ 22

Molds for Glass – Subheading 8480.50, HTSUS ....................................................... 23

Molds for Mineral Materials – Subheading 8480.60, HTSUS ..................................... 23

Molds for Rubber or Plastics – Subheadings 8480.71, HTSUS and 8480.79, HTSUS

................................................................................................................................... 24

PARTS OF MOLDS AND OTHER RELATED ARTICLES........................26

CONCLUSION...........................................................................................27

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION...................................................................28

The Internet................................................................................................................ 28

Customs Regulations ................................................................................................. 28

Customs Bulletin ........................................................................................................ 28

Importing into the United States ................................................................................. 29

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Classification of Molds and Their Parts Under the HTSUS 

August 2008 

Informed Compliance Publications............................................................................. 29

Value Publications...................................................................................................... 30

“Your Comments are Important”................................................................................. 31

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Classification of Molds and Their Parts Under the HTSUS 

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 The purpose of this publication is to assist importers in classifying molds under 

the HTSUS. 

INTRODUCTION TO THE CLASSIFICATION OF MOLDS 

 Molds are indispensable. From the bottle containing a consumer’s favorite 

beverage to the most sophisticated components in the latest jet aircraft, molds are 

involved in the manufacture of products that are essential in every person’s life. 

 

The Random House Dictionary of the English Language (1973 Ed.) provides the 

following definition of a mold (as commonly defined): 1. A hollow form or matrix for 

giving a particular shape to something in a molten or plastic state, 2. That on or about 

which something is formed or made.” Customs Headquarters (“HQ”) went on to state 

in HQ 544147 dated July 5, 1988 that “a mold is ordinarily perceived as the item which 

gives final shape and form to the manufactured article.” This definition, however, is too 

simplistic for tariff classification purposes. Molds range from simple single cavity/smallvolume use types to complex multi-cavity/large–volume use types. Some may 

incorporate heating elements or features that allow for the changing of the mold’s size. 

They can operate by methods such as injection, compression or gravity. Molds can be 

used by hand or in machinery such as injection molding machines. 

 

Molds vary greatly in use, size, value and material of composition, so too do the 

provisions of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (“HTSUS”). 

Therefore, molds cannot be relegated to one catch-all HTSUS provision. Specific 

provisions have been created to encompass the wide variety of molds that exist. 

Heading 8480, HTSUS, provides as follows: 

8480 Molding boxes for metal foundry; mold bases; molding patterns; 

molds for metal (other than ingot molds), metal carbides, glass, 

mineral materials, rubber or plastics: 

8480.10.00 00 Molding boxes for metal foundry 

 

8480.20.00 00 Mold bases 

8480.30.00 00 Molding patterns 

 

 Molds for metal or metal carbides: 

8480.41.00 00 Injection or compression types 

8480.49.00 00 Other types 

8480.50.00 Molds for glass 

10 Injection or compression types 

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Classification of Molds and Their Parts Under the HTSUS 

August 2008 

 90 Other types 

8480.60.00 Molds for mineral materials 

10 Injection or compression types 

 90 Other types 

 Molds for rubber or plastics: 

8480.71 Injection or compression types: 

8480.71.10 00 For shoe machinery 

8480.71.40 00 For the manufacture of semiconductor 

devices 

1 8480.71.80 Other /

 20 Temporarily imported for testing, 

calibration, examination, repair or 

alteration; returned after being 

exported for testing, calibration, 

examination, repair or alteration 

Other: 

45 Injection type 

 60 Compression type 

8480.79 Other types: 

8480.79.10 00 Molds for shoe machinery 

8480.79 .90 Other 

 10 Blow molds 

20 Bladder operated molds 

90 Other molds 

 Section XXII of the HTSUS consists of two chapters, i.e., Chapters 98 and 99, 

which are reserved for national use by individual countries. Chapter 99 contains 

provisions which reflect legislation and executive and administrative actions. For 

purposes of this publication, subheading 9902.84.10, HTSUS, will be discussed as 

it directly affects the classification of certain types of molds. Should the reader 

wish to delve further into the intricacies of the HTSUS, a more in-depth discussion 

on the Harmonized Commodity Coding System can be found in the Informed 

Compliance Publication (“ICP”) entitled “What Every Member of the Trade 

Community Should Know About: Tariff Classification.”

 

 9902.84.10 1/ Machines for molding or forming pneumatic tires, the 

forgoing containing in a single housing both 

components for processing rubber, for positioning and 

assembling tire components (including but not limited to 

belts, cords, and other reinforcing materials) and for 

curing “green tires” to produce finished pneumatic tires 

of heading 4011; parts of such machines (including 

 

1

 See subheading 9902.84.10 

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Classification of Molds and Their Parts Under the HTSUS 

August 2008 

molds); or molds entered separately (provided for in 

8477.59.01, 8477.90.85, or 8480.71.80, respectively) 

Historical Note: While now expired, the following information on subheading 

9902.84.19, HTSUS, is included for ease of reference when consulting past 

rulings, etc., issued on the classification of molds. 

Public Law 106-476 (114 Stat. 2101) (also known as the “Tariff Suspension and 

Trade Act of 2000”) was enacted on November 9, 2000 and became effective on 

November 24, 2000. Among the temporary duty suspensions and reductions 

encompassed by said public law was an amendment to the HTSUS, i.e., the 

insertion of subheading 9902.84.19, HTSUS, to provide for a temporary duty 

suspension through December 31, 2003 for molds for use in the manufacture of 

digital versatile discs (DVDs). Pursuant to section 1207 of this act, these particular 

molds, if entered during the period specified (i.e., on or before December 31, 

2003), were subject to duty at the rate set forth in subchapter II of chapter 99 

rather than at the rate provided for in subheading 8480.71.80, HTSUS. Molds 

meeting the terms of subheading 9902.84.19, HTSUS, were free of duty. 

Subheading 9902.84.19, HTSUS, read as follows. 

9902.84.19 1/ Molds for use in the manufacture of digital versatile discs 

(DVDs) provided for in subheading 8480.71.80) 

Note: The shaded area indicates that the provision has expired. 

The following information will provide the reader with some basic guidelines for 

classifying molds. It ranges from general to specific information that may prove 

helpful when faced with the task of determining which HTSUS provision is to be 

applied to a particular mold. It should be noted however that this list is not allinclusive. Other material such as Office of Regulations and Rulings Headquarters 

(“HQ”) and New York (“NY”) Customs rulings, court decisions and product specific 

material (e.g., schematics, drawings, invoices, etc.) should also be used in 

conjunction with the tools cited below to arrive at the proper classification. 

CLASSIFICATION TOOLS 

Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (“HTSUS”) – For legal 

purposes, molds, as with all imported merchandise, are to be classified in accordance 

with the terms of the headings of the HTSUS, any relative section and chapter notes 

and, provided such headings or notes do not otherwise require, in accordance with the 

General Rules of Interpretation (“GRIs”) taken in order. 

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Classification of Molds and Their Parts Under the HTSUS 

August 2008 

Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System Explanatory Notes

(ENs or Explanatory Notes)

2

 – These notes are the official interpretation of the 

Harmonized System (HS) at the international level. The ENs are not dispositive nor are 

they legally binding. However, they do provide commentary on the scope of each 

heading of the Harmonized System. [See T.D. 89-80, published in the Federal Register

August 23, 1989 (54 FR 35127, 35128)] 

In addition, readers should also consult the Informed Compliance Publication

(“ICP”) entitled “What Every Member of the Trade Community Should Know About: 

Tariff Classification” for additional aid in classifying molds. This publication is available 

on the Customs web site: http://www.cbp.gov. 

INVOICING 

 An invoice must contain complete and accurate information in order for the 

merchandise to be properly classified. The description cannot consist merely of one 

word, e.g., mold. The reader is advised to consult section 141.86, Customs 

Regulations, for general invoicing requirements. In addition, invoices for molds should 

state the mold’s material of composition (e.g., metal, ceramic, etc.), type of molding 

process used with the mold (e.g., injection, compression, etc.), molding material to be 

used with the mold (e.g., metal, plastics, etc.) and the article to be produced with the 

use of said mold. 

EXCLUSIONS 

All relevant section and chapter notes must be considered before the proper 

classification of the mold in question can be determined. In the interest of brevity, this 

paper will deal only with the exclusionary notes that figure in the classification of molds. 

Excluded By Virtue of Material of Composition 

An important factor to consider when classifying a mold is the mold’s material of 

composition. A mold’s material of composition often depends upon the application for 

which it will be used. Molds of ceramics, glass, graphite (or other carbon) or certain 

types of rubber are classified according to their constituent material. These molds are 

specifically precluded from classification in heading 8480, HTSUS, by virtue of the 

exclusionary language found in the legal notes to section XVI and chapter 84. 

Graphite or Carbon Molds – Chapter 68, HTSUS

[See note 1(a) to chapter 84; ENs exclusionary note (b) to heading 8480] 

Ceramic Molds – Chapter 69, HTSUS 

[See note 1(b) to chapter 84; ENs exclusionary note (c) to heading 8480] 

 

2 The Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System Explanatory Notes - Fourth Edition is © 2007 World Customs Organization 

(formerly the Customs Co-operation Council)

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Classification of Molds and Their Parts Under the HTSUS 

August 2008 

Glass Molds – Chapter 70, HTSUS

[See note 1(c) to chapter 84; ENs exclusionary note (d) to heading 8480] 

Rubber Molds – Heading 4016, HTSUS

In accordance with note 1(a) to section XVI, rubber molds are excluded 

from classification in heading 8480, HTSUS, if of vulcanized rubber other 

than hard rubber. However, not all types of rubber are rubber for tariff 

purposes. For example, silicone is often called silicone rubber, but is a 

plastic for tariff purposes. Type of rubber would have to be established in 

order to determine the proper classification. 

[See note 1(a) to section XVI; EN 40.16(9)] 

Precluded from Classification in Heading 8480, by Virtue of ENs’ Exclusionary 

Language 

Molds specifically precluded from classification in heading 8480 by virtue 

of the exclusionary language found in EN 84.80 are: 

Forms used in a manufacturing process whereby articles are 

produced by dipping the form into material – Classified According to 

Constituent Material 

 Examples: 

 Molded Pulp Products – Mold/form in shape of the article to be produced 

is dipped into a vat of pulp. Mold is held in pulp for specified amount of 

time to allow the fibers from the pulp slurry to adhere to the mold. Pulp is 

pressed onto the mold by either pressure applied to the slurry or a vacuum 

behind the mold. The finished product is then removed and dried. 

Products produced by this method include packing for eggs and plates for 

confectionery. 

 Other articles produced by the dip process include gloves. 

[ENs exclusionary note (a) to heading 8480] 

 Ingot Molds – Subheading 8454.20.00, HTSUS 

Molds of this type are usually made of steel or iron. However, graphite, 

carbon or ceramic varieties are also available (chapters 68 and 69, 

HTSUS, applicable – see exclusions by virtue of material of composition 

listed above). Shape of the mold depends upon the shape (e.g., ingots or 

slabs) into which the molten metal will be provisionally cast. Molds may 

be of a one-piece variety or come in two halves. 

[ENs exclusionary note (e) to heading 8480] 

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Classification of Molds and Their Parts Under the HTSUS 

August 2008 

 Continuous Casting Molds – Subheading 8454.90.00, HTSUS 

 Example: 

 Copper mold tubes which are fixed size molds used in continuous casting 

operations. It should be noted that the language of the EN 84.80 states 

that the heading does include molds which produce blanks or finished 

articles. The continuous casting process, in which these copper mold 

tubes are used, produces semifinished products. Thus heading 8480, 

HTSUS, is not applicable. The copper mold tubes are classified as parts 

of the casting machines in subheading 8454.90.00. 

 (See HQ 952743, February 16, 1993) 

 (Also see HQ 953268, February 16, 1993; HQ 955700, December 8, 

1994; NY 812234, July 18, 1995) 

Matrices and masters for the production of records – Heading 8523, 

HTSUS 

[ENs exclusionary note (g) to heading 8480] 

Stamping dies – Heading 8207, HTSUS

With stamping dies, molding material is shaped solely by means of a 

powerful blow or compression. In addition, the molding material is not 

retained in the die until it sets into a predetermined shape. 

[See ENs (page XVI-8480-1) to heading 8480 which read, in pertinent 

part, “...But the heading excludes stamping dies of heading 82.07 since 

these shape the material solely by means of a powerful blow or 

compression (e.g., dies for stamping out sheet-metal goods).”] 

Excluded By Virtue of Material Being Worked On 

 

 When classifying a mold (i.e., either a separately imported mold or an 

excess/spare mold), all the above mentioned exclusions must be taken into 

consideration. (See section below on “Excess/Spare Molds” for discussion of a mold 

imported together with the machine with which it will be used.) Assuming the mold is 

not excluded by virtue of any of the above exclusions, one must then consider the 

principal use of the machine in which the mold will be used. The machine must be of a 

type for use solely or principally with a material mentioned in the provisions of heading 

8480, HTSUS, i.e., metal, glass, minerals, rubber or plastics. This principal also holds 

true for a mold used manually, i.e., material being worked on determines whether or not 

the mold can be classified in heading 8480, HTSUS. Molds excluded from heading 

8480, HTSUS, by virtue of exclusionary language to heading 8480, HTSUS, but not 

excluded from section XVI by virtue of any section XVI or chapter 84 notes are to be 

classified in accordance with note 2(b) to section XVI. If the mold is to be used on a 

machine which processes a material other than those enumerated in heading 8480, 

HTSUS, e.g., wax, the mold is to be classified as a part of the machine in which it will be 

used. [ENs exclusionary note (h) to heading 8480] 

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Classification of Molds and Their Parts Under the HTSUS 

August 2008 

Examples: 

Molds for Wax - Heading 8479, HTSUS 

Also known as “wax pattern dies” are used on a wax injection machine. 

These machines employ a molding method known as “investment casting” 

(a.k.a. the “lost wax process”). These molds are not classified under 

heading 8480, HTSUS, as wax is not one of the materials mentioned in 

that heading. 

(See HQ 957678, July 18, 1995; HQ 957375, April 19, 1995.) 

Molds Used in Industrial Preparation or Manufacture of Food –

Heading 8438 HTSUS 

Molds used in continuous process bread-making 

 Molds for confectionery molding machines 

Molds for chocolate molding machines 

Molds for use in pasta making machines 

(See NY E80832, April 22, 1999) 

 

Molds Used in Pharmaceutical Production – Heading 8479, HTSUS 

Molds for use in pharmaceutical tabletting press classified in subheading 

8479.90, HTSUS. [ENs exclusionary note (h) to heading 8480] 

CONFUSING TERMINOLOGY 

At times, merchandise described as a “mold” is not a mold for purposes of 

heading 8480, HTSUS. The most obvious examples are molds for the manufacture of 

penicillin and other antibiotics which are classified in heading 3002, HTSUS. 

Other examples: 

Button Molds – Heading 9606, HTSUS

A button mold is the interior part of certain types of buttons. These molds are 

designed to be covered with another material such as leather. 

Dies (a.k.a. “molds”) 

In order for a die to be classified as a mold, the die must retain the material until 

shape has been set. It cannot shape the material solely by means of a powerful 

blow or compression such as stamping out sheet-metal goods. In addition, it 

must not be for the extrusion of molding material. If the die in question does not 

fall within these parameters, it cannot be classified in heading 8480, HTSUS. 

Examples: 

Die Casting Dies (a.k.a. molds) – Subheadings 8480.41, HTSUS or 

8480.49, HTSUS (Classification dependant upon type, i.e., injection, 

compression or other) 

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Classification of Molds and Their Parts Under the HTSUS 

August 2008 

A die casting die (mold) generally consists of a fixed die half mounted on 

the side toward the metal injection system and an ejector or movable die 

half which is mounted on the movable platen. Fixed and movable cores 

are often used in these types of dies. 

Dies for Animal Feed Pellets – Heading 8436, HTSUS 

Loose animal feed is compressed and pushed through the dies in order to 

produce pellets. 

(See HQ 961408, November 24, 1998) 

Extrusion Dies Used to Extrude PVC Products - Subheading 8477.90, 

HTSUS 

(See NY C84912, March 12, 1998) 

Metal Molds – Heading 8207, HTSUS

Dies used to die-stamp metal components 

(See NY 875624, July 23, 1992) 

Pancake Molds – Heading 7615, HTSUS

Nonstick, cast aluminum, pancake molds that can also be used as cookie 

cutters. 

(See NY A80304, February 20, 1996) 

Plastic Moldings for Automobile – Heading 8708, HTSUS 

Shipments of these moldings are often misclassified as molds. 

[Section XVI, note 1(l)] 

OTHER ISSUES 

Antiques 

Molds exceeding 100 years of age 

Example: 

Molds used in the production of hand cast toy soldiers and miniatures and which 

have been verified to exceed 100 years of age are classified in heading 9706, 

HTSUS. 

Condition as Imported 

The physical state of a mold in its imported condition should also be considered. 

Blanks 

Blanks is a term which refers to articles that while not ready for direct use have 

been worked to the point where the article has the approximate shape of the 

finished article. While unfinished, the article does possess the essential 

character of the finished article. In the case of an unfinished mold, providing the 

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Classification of Molds and Their Parts Under the HTSUS 

August 2008 

unfinished mold has the essential shape or outline of the finished mold, the 

unfinished mold would be classified as a mold. 

[See EN for GRI (2)(a)(II)] 

Forged Alloy Steel Blocks 

After importation, these blocks are cut to size and undergo various machining 

operations in order to produce finished molds. These blocks do not have the 

essential shape or outline of the mold at time of importation. 

Example: 

Forged alloy steel blocks classified in heading 7228, HTSUS 

(See NY E85616, September 14, 1999; NY E85617, September 14, 1999) 

Excess/Spare Molds 

When classifying a shipment consisting of a molding machine shipped together 

with a number of molds of varying sizes/dimensions, particular attention must be paid to 

GRI 2. In this case, the molds are to be classified in accordance with GRI 2(a). One 

must first determine how many molds are necessary for the operation of the machine. 

A small machine may only have the capability of producing one article at a time, thus 

only one mold is used. A large production machine may have the capability of 

producing multiple articles simultaneously, e.g., machine is capable of using six molds 

at one time. When shipped together with the machine with which it will be used, the 

specific number of molds required for the operation of the machine is classified together 

with the machine under the HTSUS subheading applicable for the machine itself. 

Excess/spare molds are classified in their respective headings. [See ENs, GRI 

2(a)(VII)] 

Example: 

Importation consists of one blow molding machine for production of plastic bottles 

for carbonated drinks and three different molds which vary in shape and capacity. 

Molds must be changed each time a different shaped bottle is produced. The 

three molds cannot be used simultaneously. Machine and one mold only 

classified in subheading 8477.30.0000, HTSUS, which provides for blow-molding 

machines for the production of plastic products. Balance of two molds classified 

in subheading 8480.79.9010, HTSUS. 

Lens Mold 

When classifying molds used in the production of spectacle (a.k.a. “eyeglass”) or 

contact lenses, a determination must be made as to the type of lens involved – glass or 

plastic. Molds used in the production of glass lenses are classified in subheading 

8480.50.00, HTSUS, while molds used in the production of plastic lenses are classified 

in subheading 8480.71 or 8480.79, HTSUS, (depending upon the molding process 

used, e.g., injection, compression, etc.) 

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Classification of Molds and Their Parts Under the HTSUS 

August 2008 

A contact lens mold which, in its imported condition, consists of a plastic mold 

containing a dry contact lens that will be subject to further processing and 

manufacturing operations in the United States, is subject to classification in two 

separate HTSUS headings. The essential function of the mold is to retain the 

unfinished dry contact lens (also a plastic material) in a predetermined shape and 

hold it in place until it is hydrated at the U.S. manufacturing facility. Only the mold is 

classified in subheading 8480.79.9090, HTSUS. The dry contact lens is not part of 

the mold but rather a separate entity in and of itself. The lens is separately classified 

in subheading 9001.30.0000, HTSUS. (See NY H81137, May 25, 2001; NY J89911, 

November 7, 2003.) 

 

Care must be taken to distinguish between molds FOR glass and molds OF

glass. Subheading 8480.50.00, HTSUS, provides only for molds FOR glass. Molds OF

glass are specifically precluded from classification in heading 8480 by virtue of the 

exclusionary language found in EN 84.80, note (d) which reads “Moulds made of glass 

(heading 70.20).” In addition, note 1(c) to Chapter 84 states that chapter 84 does not 

cover “Laboratory glassware (heading 7017); machinery, appliances or other articles for 

technical uses or parts thereof, of glass (heading 7019 or 7020)”. (See NY M80196, 

February 17, 2006) 

Preliminary Tabletting Molds 

Heading 8480 also includes preliminary tabletting molds that form molding powders 

into tablets which will be subsequently sent for final molding into the desired article. 

Care should be taken in identifying the specific powder being used in the process to 

ensure that the powder is of a material encompassed by heading 8480, HTSUS. In 

addition, one must distinguish between preliminary tabletting molds and tabletting 

molds that produce an article in its final form, e.g., molds for pharmaceutical tablets. 

Sets Containing Molds 

 Many times, a group of items will be imported as a “set”. In some instances, the 

“set” contains one or several molds. Assuming the group of items meets the 

requirements set forth in GRI 3(b) for “goods put up in sets for retail sale” [i.e., (1) 

consist of at least two different articles which are classifiable in different headings, (2) 

consist of articles put up together to meet a particular need or carry out a specific 

activity and (3) are put up in a manner suitable for sale directly to users without 

repacking], the group of items is classified according to the article which imparts the 

essential character to the set. 

(See ICP entitled “What Every Member of the Trade Community Should Know About: 

Classification of Sets” for further information on sets.) 

 

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Classification of Molds and Their Parts Under the HTSUS 

August 2008 

Examples: 

 Cable Splicing Kit - heading 3909, HTSUS 

Essential character of this set consisting of thermoplastic mold, plastic sealing 

tape and casting resin imparted by the polyurethane casting resin. 

(See HQ 083431, November 13, 1989) 

Classification of Sets as Educational Toys under heading 9503, HTSUS 

The individual set of articles, i.e., ball molds, ball powder and a water dropper, for 

the production of balls, when imported retail packed, are considered educational 

toys for tariff classification purposes. 

(See PD D89144, April 9, 1999) 

The individual set of articles, i.e., plastic molds, measuring cup, wire whisk, 

mixing spoon, bases, plastic dessert sticks and instructions for the preparation of 

dessert, when imported retail packed, are considered educational toys for tariff 

classification purposes. 

(See NY D83618, November 9, 1998) 

TERMS COMMONLY USED IN MOLDING INDUSTRY 

 Readers are advised to familiarize themselves with the terminology used in the 

casting and molding industries. A working knowledge of the terms is essential in order 

to classify molds correctly. Following is a list of some of the basic terms used: 

Bottom Board (a.k.a. Bottom Plate) – See Flask. 

Cavity - depression into which molding material flows. The cavity gives the external 

shape to the article being produced. 

Casting – a metal article conforming to the shape of a mold’s cavity(ies). The article is 

formed by a process of pouring or injecting liquid metal into a mold. See 

Processes/Casting. 

Cheek – See Flask. 

Cope – the outer portion of a mold. See Flask. 

Drag – the bottom section of a flask. See Flask. 

Flash – a thin piece of excess molding material. This can be found around air vents or 

separation lines. 

Flask – frame of steel or wood which is used to hold molding sand around pattern. A 

flask is generally made of two sections – drag section/lower half and cope section/upper 

half. At times, a third section is added between the cope and the drag sections. This 

18
Classification of Molds and Their Parts Under the HTSUS 

August 2008 

third section is called the cheek section. The bottom of the flask is called the bottom 

board or plate. 

Gate – opening at end of runner (See runner). 

Mold (a.k.a. Moulds) – a cavity into which a molding material is poured or injected in 

order to shape it into a desired shape. Among the various types of molds are: 

Dry–sand mold - sand mold that is dried prior to being filled with the molding 

material (generally liquid metal). 

 

Green-sand mold – sand mold that is not dried prior to being filled with the 

molding material (generally liquid metal). This type of mold is composed of moist 

molding sand. 

 

Permanent mold – mold used repetitively for the production of multiple articles 

of the same shape/specifications. 

Plunger – ram which forces molding material into die. 

Processes, Molding – The following is not meant to be an all-inclusive listing of the 

methods used in the molding industry. Rather it is a random sampling to demonstrate 

the variety of methods available to the industry. 

Blow Molding – Process involves the injection of air or gas into a parison (a.k.a. 

“rough blank”) in order to expand the parison. This expansion forces the material 

against the sides of the mold, thus forming a hollow article having a desired 

shape (e.g., bottle). 

Casting – The basic difference between casting and molding lies in the type of 

molding material used in the process. Casting generally uses molten material 

while molding processes generally use materials in granular or powder form. 

Examples of the various types of casting processes available are: 

Centrifugal - Process involves the use of a rotating cylindrical mold. The 

molding material is thrown against the walls of the mold by centrifugal 

force and as it solidifies, the material takes on the desired shape.

Continuous – Process involves the use of an ingot mold. The process is 

continuous in that it does not cease after a pre-determined length of time. 

The solidified ingot is continually sheared and removed as soon as it is 

cast. The process differs from static ingot casting in that molding material 

is continuously being added as the material at the other end solidifies. In 

the static casting process, an appropriate amount of material is generally 

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Classification of Molds and Their Parts Under the HTSUS 

August 2008 

introduced into the mold only at the beginning of the process. No new 

material is added as the material solidifies into the desired shape. 

Other casting processes include casting under pressure, casting to shape (in 

addition to centrifugal, this category also includes sand, permanent-mold and die) 

and zero gravity casting. 

Compression - Molding material is loaded into a mold cavity. The heat and 

pressure applied in the closed mold cause the material to conform to the shape 

of the mold’s cavity. Plastic is hardened into its final state as a result of an 

internal chemical reaction. Compression molding is generally used for 

processing thermosetting material. 

Dip – Mold in shape of the article to be produced is dipped into a vat of molding 

material, e.g., pulp. Mold is held in molding material for specified amount of time 

to allow the material to adhere to the mold. Molding material is pressed onto the 

mold by either pressure applied to the material or by vacuum behind the mold. 

The finished product is then removed and dried. 

Extrusion – Softened-molding material is forced through a die, thus producing 

the desired shape. Products made by the extrusion process include pipes and 

tubing. 

Extrusion processes include: 

Blown Film Extrusion – air pressure is applied to a tube of plastic as it is 

being extruded in order to produce a thin gauge plastic film. 

Injection – Molding material is injected into a cold mold where it solidifies and 

takes the shape of the mold cavity(ies). 

Investment – See Lost Wax.

Lost-wax – Wax is injected into a metal form to create a pattern with the 

specifications of the desired article. The solidified wax pattern (a.k.a. 

“investment”) is removed from the metal form and repeatedly dipped in ceramic 

slurry. It is subsequently coated with sand until a hard shell or mold is formed. 

The next step involves heating the mold. This allows the wax to melt. After the 

melted wax is drained out, molten metal is poured into the space vacated by the 

wax. After cooling, the mold is removed leaving behind the metal which has 

hardened into the desired shape. 

 

Metal Injection – Metal injection molding is a combination of the thermoplastic 

injection molding process and the powder metallurgy process whereby material is 

shaped by means of injection type molds. 

Rotational – Molding material (powder or liquid) is placed in a mold which 

rotates continuously about its axes to uniformly coat the inner surface of the 

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Classification of Molds and Their Parts Under the HTSUS 

August 2008 

mold. The rotating mold first passes through a heated oven where the plastic is 

fused and then through a cooling chamber. Hollow molded article, such as a 

hollow ball, is removed after cooling operation. When liquid material is used, 

process is often referred to as “slush molding”. It should be noted that slush 

molding not limited to the production of footwear (See E. Dillingham, Inc. v. 

United States, C.D. 4082). 

Slush – See Rotational 

Thermoforming – Thermoforming is the forming of an article from a sheet of 

plastics by the application of heat and pressure or vacuum. Pressure forces the 

molding material (softened by the heat) into the mold thus producing the desired 

shape. Vacuum molding is the forming of an article from a sheet of plastics by 

application of heat and vacuum. As the air between the sheet and the mold is 

evacuated, the sheet is pressed against the mold face thus producing the desired 

shape. 

Transfer – See Compression 

Transfer molding is similar to the compression molding process. However, unlike 

the compression process in which the mold itself is heated, in transfer molding 

the molding material first goes to a separate preheating chamber. When the 

material has reached the appropriate fluidized state, it is transferred under heat 

and pressure into a closed mold. Transfer molding is generally used for 

processing thermosetting material. 

. 

Riser (a.k.a. feeder or feeder head) – feeds liquid metal to the casting to compensate 

for shrinkage of the liquid metal that is occurring as it cools and solidifies. 

Runner – channel cut into one or both halves of the mold along which molding material 

runs into the mold’s cavity(ies). 

Thermoplastic – plastics material that requires heat to make it conform to a desired 

shape. A thermoplastic differs from a thermoset in that it can be reheated and reformed 

numerous times, thus enabling scrap to be reclaimed and reprocessed. Examples 

include PVC and polystyrene.

Thermoset – plastics material that requires heat to make it conform to a desired 

permanent shape. A thermoset differs from a thermoplastic in that once the shape is 

set, the material generally cannot be remelted or reformed. Examples include phenolics 

and ureas. 

 

DISCUSSION OF SPECIFIC TARIFF PROVISIONS 

Assuming a mold under consideration has not been excluded from heading 8480, 

HTSUS, by virtue of any of the above mentioned notes, the mold is classified in 

accordance with the terms of heading 8480, HTSUS. Heading 8480, HTSUS, includes 

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Classification of Molds and Their Parts Under the HTSUS 

August 2008 

molds which are electrically or otherwise heated. The EN 84.80 provides that the 

heading encompasses all molds (subject to the above-mentioned exclusions) provided 

the molds are used in the production (either manual or mechanical) of blanks or finished 

articles. Molds may operate by means such as gravity, injection or compression. 

Molding Boxes for Metal Foundry – Subheading 8480.10, HTSUS 

Molding boxes for metal foundries are round or rectangular frames. Sand molds 

are formed in molding boxes by packing a mixture of sand and clay around a pattern. 

They can have features such as hinged sections or removable ends which facilitate the 

removal of molds from the boxes. The boxes are usually manufactured from cast iron 

or steel. 

Mold Bases – Subheading 8480.20, HTSUS 

A mold base is a plate physically located on the bottom of a mold. 

Molding Patterns – Subheading 8480.30, HTSUS 

This subheading encompasses items such as patterns and core boxes to be 

used in the preparation of sand molds. 

Examples: 

Patterns are models made of either wood, metal or some other easily worked material. 

A pattern is shaped to the same configuration as the desired casting. The moistened 

sand/clay mixture is firmly packed over the face of the pattern to form the desired cavity. 

When the pattern is removed, a cavity is left in the sand. The result of this operation is 

an actual production mold. Molten metal is subsequently poured into the cavity which 

has been molded to the desired shape of the pattern. When solidified, the sand mold is 

broken and the casting removed. 

Core boxes are molds used for the production of sand cores. The core-boxes are 

hardened steel complete with ejector plates and pins. These boxes are generally 

fitted onto sand injection machines that are fired with gas to cure the sand cores. 

After the sand is baked, the cores are used to create openings and various shaped 

cavities in a casting. 

Molds for Metal or Metal Carbides – Subheadings 8480.41, HTSUS and 

8480.49, HTSUS 

Examples: 

Die Cast Dies 

As noted previously, in order for a die to be classified as a mold, the die must retain the 

material until shape has been set. It cannot shape the material solely by means of a 

powerful blow or compression such as stamping out sheet-metal goods. In addition, it 

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Classification of Molds and Their Parts Under the HTSUS 

August 2008 

must not be for the extrusion of molding material. Assuming the die meets all of the 

above requirements, it is classified in heading 8480, HTSUS. 

“Squeeze Casting” Mold 

Mold used in a “squeeze casting” process is considered to be an injection or 

compression type of mold. Molds of this type are used to produce articles such as 

aluminum automotive parts. 

(See NY A86776, September 3, 1996) 

Molds for Glass – Subheading 8480.50, HTSUS 

Example: 

A blank mold is used in a process where an individual molten glass gob is dropped into 

the blank mold. Once in the blank mold, the gob takes a rough shape (a.k.a. “parison” 

or “rough blank”) of the article to be produced, e.g., a glass bottle. After the desired 

features have been formed, the article is passed to the blow mold where the article is 

blown to final form. Both the blank mold and the blow mold in this instance are 

classified in subheading 8480.50.00, HTSUS. However, care should be taken in 

identifying the specific material being used in the process to ensure that the mold is 

used solely or principally with a glass material. If the blow mold is for use with a plastic 

material, the blow mold is classified in subheading 8480.79.9010, HTSUS. 

As mentioned previously in this publication, care must be taken to distinguish 

between molds FOR glass and molds OF glass. Subheading 8480.50.00, HTSUS, 

provides only for molds FOR glass. Molds OF glass are specifically precluded from 

classification in heading 8480 by virtue of the exclusionary language found in EN 84.80, 

note (d) which reads “Moulds made of glass (heading 70.20).” In addition, note 1(c) to 

Chapter 84 states that chapter 84 does not cover “Laboratory glassware (heading 

7017); machinery, appliances or other articles for technical uses or parts thereof, of 

glass (heading 7019 or 7020)”. (See NY M80196, February 17, 2006) 

Molds for Mineral Materials – Subheading 8480.60, HTSUS 

Examples: 

Molds used to mold concrete into pre-determined structural shapes may also be 

referred to as “forms” or “formwork”. These forms are usually used to shape 

concrete in the construction industry, e.g., for walls, ceilings and pillars. They can also 

be used to form cylindrical forms such as bases for traffic lights. The forms are usually 

stand-alone units which do not require a machine for operation. 

(See HQ 083273, March 10, 1989 and NY B88647, August 18, 1997) 

Mold (a.k.a. die) used in the production of automotive disc brake pads. 

(See NY 856876, October 24, 1990) 

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Classification of Molds and Their Parts Under the HTSUS 

August 2008 

Dental Impression – The impression itself is a mold because it will be used to make a 

dental mold. Articles of general use such as a mold are classified in their respective 

headings even though they may be used by a dentist. 

[See NY 817484, January 16, 1996 and EN 90.18(II)] 

(Also see HQ 087328, September 26, 1990; NY 861238, March 18, 1991; NY 869319, 

December 23, 1991; NY A87892, October 17, 1996; NY B88647, August 18, 1997; NY 

C87923, May 29, 1998; NY E86595, September 24, 1999) 

Molds for Rubber or Plastics – Subheadings 8480.71, HTSUS and 8480.79, HTSUS 

Subheadings 8480.71.1000, HTSUS, and 8480.79.1000, HTSUS Molds for Shoe 

Machinery 

In order to qualify for either one of these duty-free provisions, a mold must be 

used on a machine with features unique to a shoe machine. One has to distinguish 

between the physical characteristics of the machine on which the molds will be used 

from a general purpose molding machine. Shoe machinery features a last carrier 

mechanism which holds a last, i.e., a model of the foot upon which the shoe/boot is 

formed. When determining whether or not the machine qualifies as shoe machinery, 

one should consider the commercial/economic feasibility of changing the molds. With 

general purpose molding machines, the customary practice of the industry is to change 

molds frequently in order to produce a wide variety of articles. In this case, changing 

the molds is generally an inexpensive operation. 

Subheading 8480.71.4000, HTSUS, Molds for the manufacture of semiconductor 

devices 

On December 13, 1996, the United States, Australia, Canada, Chinese Taipei, 

the European Communities, Hong Kong, Iceland, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Norway, 

Singapore, Switzerland and Turkey signed the Information Technology Agreement 

(“ITA”). Presidential Proclamation 7011 (reflecting the provisions of the World Trade 

Organization Ministerial Declaration on Trade in Information Technology Products) 

dated July 1, 1997, contained the details necessary to implement the tariff concessions 

granted by this Agreement. Included in the scope of the products eligible under the ITA 

are molds used in the manufacture of semiconductor devices (i.e., diodes, transistors, 

and similar semiconductor products, or integrated circuits). 

Subheading 8480.71.8020, HTSUS - Molds temporarily imported for testing, 

calibration, examination, repair or alteration; returned after being exported for 

testing, calibration, examination, repair or alteration 

 Effective January 1, 1997, this subheading was added to the HTSUS to address 

the problem of an overstatement of U.S. mold imports on the U.S. import statistics. 

Prior to the implementation of NAFTA, molds being continuously moved between 

countries (primarily between the United States and Canada) for purposes of testing, 

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Classification of Molds and Their Parts Under the HTSUS 

August 2008 

calibration, examination, repair or alteration were usually imported temporarily free of 

duty under bond (“TIB”). Once NAFTA was implemented, entries were being made 

under the regular HTSUS number, duty free if all NAFTA requirements were met. 

Counting the same mold multiple times resulted in a distortion of the trade statistics. 

The use of subheading 8480.71.8020, HTSUS, when appropriate, allows for the proper 

identification of these particular molds for statistical purposes. It eliminates the 

possibility of counting the same mold multiple times. 

When classifying a mold of this type, subheading 9802.00.50, HTSUS, must also be 

taken into consideration. Subheading 9802.00.50, HTSUS, provides for articles 

returned to the U.S. after having been exported for repairs or alterations. Articles 

eligible for this provision are entitled to a partial duty exemption with duty assessed 

only upon the cost or value of the foreign repairs or alterations. This is in contrast to 

a mold classified in subheading 8480.71.8020, HTSUS, where duty is assessed on 

the full value of the mold, plus the cost of the repair or alteration. 

In order to determine the proper classification, subheading 8480.71.8020, HTSUS, 

or subheading 9802.00.50/8480.71.8045, HTSUS, (or “60” depending upon whether 

injection or compression type), one has to determine whether the mold is “complete” 

or “incomplete” for its intended use. HQ 957375, April 19, 1995 explains in detail 

how these terms are to be interpreted for purposes of headings 8480, HTSUS, and 

9802, HTSUS. As stated in the cited ruling, “Subheading 9802.00.50, HTSUS, 

treatment is also precluded where the exported articles are incomplete for their 

intended use and the foreign processing operation is a necessary step in the 

preparation or manufacture of finished articles.” 

 

Example #1: 

A mold is manufactured in Canada to the specifications of the U.S. customer. The 

Canadian manufacturer ships the completed mold to its U.S. customer for examination 

and testing. The U.S. customer finds the mold does not conform to his specifications 

and returns the mold to the Canadian manufacturer for calibration or alteration. After 

performing the requested work, the mold is again shipped to the U.S. customer for 

examination and testing. Subheading 8480.71.8020, HTSUS, applies as the mold in 

this case is not a finished article. 

Each time it comes into the United States for examination and testing the mold is closer 

to being a finished good but it is still not complete. It will not be finished until it finally 

conforms to all the customer’s specifications. 

Example #2: 

An injection mold becomes worn out due to repetitive use in the United States. The 

owner decides to return it to the original foreign manufacturer for repair. The repaired 

mold is returned to the owner in the United States. Subheading 

9802.00.50/8480.71.8045, HTSUS, applies. 

 

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Classification of Molds and Their Parts Under the HTSUS 

August 2008 

A mold was complete when sent abroad and complete when returned to the United 

States. The repair operation did not result in a new or commercially different article nor 

change the character or use of the mold. The mold was merely restored to proper 

working order. 

 

Subheadings 8480.71.8045, HTSUS 

Example: 

Molds/forms used in injection molding press machines to mold granules generated from 

a tire recycling operation into flooring tiles and flooring rolls. 

(See NY 810729, June 14, 1995) 

(Also see HQ 951242, June 22, 1993; HQ 962000, June 15, 1999; NY 816218, 

November 9, 1995; NY C85027, April 2, 1998, NY F84678, April 17, 2000) 

Subheading 8480.71.8060, HTSUS 

Compression type – a simple compression mold is usually comprised of two plates. 

With the plates apart, a crude-rubber compound is placed in the cavity. The two mold 

halves are put together and compressed in a hydraulic press. Molds of this type are 

used in the production of vehicle tires. 

Subheading 8480.79.9010, HTSUS 

Blow molds are used in the production of thin-walled, hollow articles such as bottles. 

Care should be taken in identifying the specific material being used in the process to 

ensure that the blow mold is used solely or principally with a rubber or plastics material. 

If a blow mold is used solely or principally with a glass material the blow mold will be 

classified in subheading 8480.50.0090, HTSUS. 

Subheading 8480.79.9020, HTSUS 

A bladder operated mold is so named because it incorporates either an air-inflated or a 

hot water-inflated bag. During the production of tires, the bag presses the tire against 

the mold. 

Subheading 8480.79.9090, HTSUS 

This subheading covers molds for rubber or plastics not listed in subheadings 

8480.71.1000, HTSUS, through 8480.79.9020, HTSUS, inclusive. 

Examples: 

Rotational molds used in rotational molding process. Transfer molds used in the 

transfer molding process. 

PARTS OF MOLDS AND OTHER RELATED ARTICLES 

The most important rule to remember when classifying parts of molds is that 

there is no provision for parts or accessories of molds under heading 8480, 

HTSUS, even if the part is designed and dedicated for use solely with a particular mold. 

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Classification of Molds and Their Parts Under the HTSUS 

August 2008 

The language of heading 8480, HTSUS, is clear on this point. However, it should be 

noted that this rule does not apply to the ingot molds and continuous casting molds of 

heading 8454. The language of heading 8454, HTSUS, encompasses “parts of” as well 

as complete ingot and continuous casting molds. 

Examples: 

Chaplets–Classification Dependant Upon Machine In Which Mold Will Be 

Used 

Metal supports used in mold cavity to maintain the proper position of parts of the 

mold (e.g., internal core) that are not self-supporting. 

Core for Die Casting Machine - Subheading 8454.90.0030, HTSUS 

Core for die casting die (mold). When the molded article is removed from the die 

casting machine, it will have an opening that has the shape of the core. 

(See NY F88310, June 23, 2000)

Die Inserts for Use in Pasta Molds – Subheading 8438.90.9015, HTSUS

Used in the production of pasta shapes in pasta making machines. 

(See NY E80147, April 21, 1999) 

Hot Runner System – Subheading 8477.90.8501, HTSUS 

Internal component of a hot runner injection mold. The system consists of a 

series of heated channels which maintain the proper processing temperature for 

the molding material. Molten molding material exiting through the nozzle of the 

injection molding machine is conveyed through these channels into the mold’s 

cavity(ies). A basic system consists of gates, heaters, manifolds, nozzles, 

temperature controllers and thermocouples. Depending upon the type of heating 

to be utilized (i.e., direct or indirect), other components, such as band heaters for 

direct heating, can be added. 

(See NY 861890, April 19, 1991) 

Stainless Steel Susmic Aramid Kevlar Fiber Woven Fabric – Heading 7326, 

HTSUS

Used as an insulating material for molds in an automobile glass manufacturing 

line. 

(See HQ 962337, June 16, 1999) 

CONCLUSION 

 Classification of goods is a complex task. By familiarizing oneself with the above 

basic guidelines, the reader will be able to make an informed classification 

determination when dealing with an importation of a mold, thus ensuring the proper 

assessment of duties and the accuracy of import statistics. 

27
Classification of Molds and Their Parts Under the HTSUS 

August 2008 

 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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Classification of Molds and Their Parts Under the HTSUS 

August 2008 

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. 

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Classification of Molds and Their Parts Under the HTSUS 

August 2008 

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. 

30
Classification of Molds and Their Parts Under the HTSUS 

August 2008 

“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

31