CBP Posts Four Revised ICPs on Textiles/Apparel and Cotton
U.S. Customs and Border Protection has posted four informed compliance publications that were revised in June 2008.
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The following are highlights of the substantive changes to the four ICPs (as provided by CBP sources):
Classification: apparel terminology under the HTS. This ICP provides a brief guide for classifying apparel under Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) Chapters 61 and 62, and a glossary of working definitions for the apparel-related provisions that appear in those chapters. It is intended as an aid for importers and interested parties in determining the appropriate HTS classifications for apparel, and thus the rates of duty and textile quota categories that correspond to those classifications.
The ICP was revised to remove "Eisenhower styling" from the list of criteria that could be used to indicate that a shirt-jacket, which is a hybrid garment that could be classified as either a jacket or shirt, is a jacket.
(Note that garments not classified as jackets will not necessarily be classified as shirts.)
Ribbons and trimmings under the HTS. The classification of ribbons and trimmings are covered by this ICP. The ICP also provides questions and answers regarding the classification of such merchandise.
The ICP was revised to clarify the answers to certain questions related to extruded plastic ribbons.
Classification of textile costumes under the HTS. Topics such as definition of a costume; the difference between flimsy, non-durable costumes of HTS Chapter 95 and well-made costumes of HTS Chapters 61 and 62; classification of flimsy costumes; classification of well-made textile costumes; classification of textile costumes with multiple components; marking of all textile costumes (HTS Chapter 95, 61 or 62); information needed for binding rulings; and entry requirements are covered in this ICP.
According to CBP sources, no substantive changes were made to this ICP.
Classification and quota status of raw cotton under the HTS. In this ICP, CBP provides a general overview of the classification and quota status of raw cotton under the HTS. It also provides a questionnaire on how to enter raw cotton (not carded or combed, not waste).
The ICP was revised to include additional free trade agreements.
ICPs Provided for Informational Purposes Only
CBP states that the information provided in these publications is for general information purposes only. CBP cautions that because many complicated factors can be involved in customs issues, an importer may wish to obtain a ruling under CBP Regulations, 19 CFR 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 these ICPs may not be considered reasonable care.
Revised ICPs (June 2008) and all other ICPs available at http://www.cbp.gov/xp/cgov/trade/legal/informed_compliance_pubs/