4009.31.00.00 - Without fittings

This HTS category, 4009.31.00.00, specifically covers tubes, pipes, and hoses manufactured from vulcanized rubber. A key defining characteristic of items classified here is that they are reinforced or combined with textile materials. Crucially, for this specific subcategory, the items are imported or exported *without* any fittings attached. Fittings would include components such as connectors, couplings, elbows, or flanges that are designed to join the hose or pipe to other systems or components.

The distinction between this category and its sibling, 4009.32.00, lies solely in the presence or absence of fittings. While both categories cover textile-reinforced rubber hoses, 4009.31.00.00 applies only to those that are bare and do not have any integrated or attached fittings at the time of classification. This classification ensures that the customs treatment reflects whether the product is a complete assembly ready for immediate use with connecting components or a standalone hose requiring separate procurement of fittings.

As this is a leaf node within the HTS structure, there are no further subcategories. Therefore, the focus for classification within this node is on accurately identifying the material composition (vulcanized rubber reinforced with textiles) and confirming the absence of any attached fittings. Examples of goods falling under this classification would include lengths of industrial hoses, garden hoses, or hydraulic hoses made with textile reinforcement, but without any pre-attached metal or plastic connectors.