CBP Issues Revised ICP on Wadding, Gauze, Bandages and Similar Articles (Heading 3005 HTSUS)
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has issued a revised version of its informed compliance publication (ICP) entitled, What Every Member of the Trade Community Should Know About: Wadding, Gauze, Bandages and Similar Articles (Heading 3005 HTSUS).
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The publication was prepared by the National Commodity Specialist Division and covers wadding, gauze, bandages and similar articles of heading 3005. The ICP was first issued in April 2000, reviewed with no changes in January 2004, and revised in July 2006.
No Changes to Substantive Content of the ICP
According to CBP sources, there were no substantive changes to the reviewed ICP. The only changes made were changes that updated reference material (e.g. from 2nd to 3rd edition of a reference book) and updated page numbers to explanatory note citations.
Overview of Revised ICP
According to the table of contents, the revised ICP contains information on the following (partial list):
Definitions and Uses
list of definitions and uses of wadding, primary wound dressings, absorbents, bandages, adhesive tapes, protectives, poultices, and compresses
Materials
materials used in making the products listed in the definition section
Pharmaceutical Substances
provides clarification on what are pharmaceutical substances
Retail Packaging, Labeling, Folding
requirements for retail packaging, labeling, and folding
Post-Importation Manipulations
manipulations after importation, such as repacking, labeling or relabeling, special folding, etc., will render the products ineligible for classification in heading 3005.
Products Outside the Purview of Heading 3005
articles not rising to a certain level of medical treatment are not classifiable in heading 3005
Possible Misclassification Consequences
possible misclassification consequences and further clarification on classification
The Importer's Responsibilities
the legal burden of correctly classifying merchandise has shifted from CBP to the importer, who must use reasonable care in carrying out this responsibility
Invoice Requirements
certain general invoice information is required at the time of entry or entry summary
CBP states that the material in this publication is provided 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 to obtain advice from an expert who specializes in customs matters-for example, a licensed customs broker, attorney or consultant. Reliance solely on the general information in this pamphlet may not be considered reasonable care.
ICP on Wadding, Gauze, Bandages and Similar Articles (Heading 3005 HTSUS) (revised July 2006) available at http://www.cbp.gov/linkhandler/cgov/toolbox/legal/informed_compliance_pubs/icp053.ctt/icp053.pdf