4404.20.00.40 - Fence pickets, palings and rails

This HTS category, 4404.20.00.40, specifically covers wooden fence pickets, palings, and rails. These are typically finished or semi-finished wooden components designed for the construction of fences. Pickets are the vertical elements, palings are similar but often thicker or more robust, and rails are the horizontal connecting pieces that the pickets or palings are attached to. The material is wood, and these items are characterized by their shape and intended use in creating barrier structures, distinguishing them from raw lumber or more processed wood products.

Within the broader heading of 4404, which encompasses various forms of prepared wood like hoopwood, split poles, and piles, this subcategory focuses on elements specifically designed for fencing. It is important to differentiate these from other items under 4404.20.00, such as "Poles, piles and posts" (4404.20.00.80). While all involve wood and can be used in outdoor structures, fence pickets, palings, and rails are typically smaller, more numerous, and possess specific dimensions and shaping (e.g., pointed ends for pickets) directly related to their function in forming a fence, whereas poles, piles, and posts are generally larger, structural elements.

As a leaf node within the HTS structure, this category does not have further subcategories. Classification into 4404.20.00.40 relies on the clear identification of the goods as being wooden articles intended for use as fence pickets, palings, or rails, as opposed to other types of wood prepared for different purposes.