4404.20.00.80 - Poles, piles and posts

This HTS category, 4404.20.00.80, specifically enumerates "poles, piles and posts" made from nonconiferous wood. This classification encompasses wooden elements that are primarily characterized by their length and are intended for structural or foundational purposes. Examples include wooden poles used in electrical or telecommunication infrastructure, pilings driven into the ground for construction support, and posts for fencing or agricultural applications. The key defining features are the substantial length and the intended function as a supporting or structural element, often implying a degree of rough shaping or pointed ends for insertion.

It is important to distinguish these items from their sibling categories. HTS 4404.20.00.40 covers "fence pickets, palings and rails," which are typically smaller wooden components specifically designed for the construction of fences and are generally not of the same substantial length or structural intent as poles, piles, or posts. The sibling category 4404.20.00.90, "Other," serves as a residual category for nonconiferous items falling under the broader description of hoopwood, split poles, or pointed but not sawn lengthwise wood, which do not fit into the more specific classifications.

As this classification is a leaf node, there are no further subcategories. Therefore, the focus for classification within 4404.20.00.80 lies on accurately identifying the physical characteristics and intended use of the wooden article to ensure it aligns with the definition of poles, piles, and posts, while distinct from fence components or other less specifically defined wood articles.