The following revocations of classification rulings are included in the Aug. 27, 2025, Customs Bulletin and Decisions. For more information on how to seek or utilize classification and other rulings, please contact ST&R.
Optical Patch Panel
CBP is reclassifying an optical patch panel as an optical appliance or instrument under HTSUS 9013.80.91 (4.5 percent duty) rather than as apparatus for the transmission or reception of voice, images, or other data under HTSUS 8517.70.00 (duty-free).
Ruling HQ H258594 will revoke ruling NY N022319 reflect this change, effective with respect to goods entered or withdrawn from warehouse for consumption on or after Oct. 27.
The item at issue is an optical patch panel sold as an optional part for a system that sends voice, data, and video traffic via fiber optic cables. It provides, via a front panel, eight multifiber cables with MTP connectors on the end and 22 duplex LC connectors. Inside the device, the multifiber cables are split out to 44 individual transmit and receive fibers that are terminated at the front panel via the 22 duplex LC connectors.
CBP explains that an “optical” appliance or instrument with no purpose but to channel and direct information through fiber optic cables, and which is not the fibers themselves, falls within heading 9013.
Forklift Attachments
CBP is reclassifying the following forklift attachments, which are currently classified as forklift truck parts under HTSUS 8431.20.00 (duty-free), in the subheadings indicated.
- snowplow blades: HTSUS 8430.20.00 (snowplows; duty-free)
- “Pallet Saver” designed to protect wood pallets: HTSUS 7326.90.86 (other steel articles; 2.9 percent duty)
- magnetic fork covers designed to provide added grip to increase load stability: HTSUS 4016.99.60 (other articles of vulcanized rubber; 2.5 percent duty)
Ruling HQ H332697 will revoke rulings NY N301485, NY 893829, and NY N249028 to reflect these changes, effective with respect to goods entered or withdrawn from warehouse for consumption on or after Oct. 27.
CBP explains that these items are not parts because they are not essential to a forklift’s normal operation.
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