The following proposed revocations and modifications of U.S. Customs and Border Protection rulings are included in the July 2, 2025, Customs Bulletin and Decisions. Comments on these proposed changes are due by Aug. 2.
For more information on how to seek or utilize classification and other rulings, please contact ST&R.
Wireless Headphones
CBP is proposing to reclassify certain wireless headphones and earphones as other headphones and earphones under HTSUS 8518.30.20 (duty-free) rather than as apparatus for the reception, conversion, and transmission or regeneration of voice, images, or other data under HTSUS 8517.62.00 (duty-free). Rulings HQ H251033 and NY N308565 would be revoked, and ruling HQ H245902 would be modified, to reflect this change.
The items at issue include (1) a wireless stereo headset with dual full-size earphones, a microphone, a rechargeable battery, a power input, and a USB dongle transceiver that can be used to connect the headset to a video game console or computer, (2) mobile phone wireless earphones, and (3) earbuds that connect wirelessly to an audio source and include an integrated microphone.
CBP states that these items are composite machines classified according to their principal function, which is sound reproduction.
Brake Hoses
CBP is proposing to revoke rulings NY N302378 and NY N331974 to specify that certain brake hoses are not substantially transformed in the countries in which they are cut.
The items at issue in NY N302378 are Teflon and nylon hoses with steel wire braided around them that are produced in Spain. The hoses are then shipped to China, where they are cut to length and assembled with steel fittings and/or clamps before the completed items are packaged for shipment to the U.S. The product at issue in NY N331974 is front brake hose used on motorcycles that is composed primarily of bulk roll Japanese-origin hose that is cut to length and crimped in Thailand before being assembled with fittings from China, Germany, Thailand, and the U.S. The hose has an inner tube made of fluorine resin, steel wire braiding, and a thermoplastic urethan outer cover.
CBP currently holds that the country of origin of these items is China and Thailand, respectively. However, CBP is now proposing to revoke these rulings to reflect its longstanding position that cutting brake hose to length and attaching fittings to it does not substantially transform the hose.
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