4412.52.31.61 - Not surface covered

This HTS category, 4412.52.31.61, specifically classifies plywood that is not surface covered. This means the product's surface retains its natural wood appearance, without any coatings, veneers, or treatments that would obscure the grain, texture, or markings of the face ply. The emphasis here is on raw, unfinished plywood, where the inherent characteristics of the wood itself are visible and unaltered by further surface applications.

This classification distinguishes itself from its sibling, 4412.52.31.75 (also designated as "Other"), by the absence of any surface covering. While both are at the same granular level within the plywood classification, the `.61` designation is for the truly uncoated product, whereas the `.75` would encompass any other plywood not specifically defined elsewhere at this level, potentially including those with very minimal or specific types of surface treatments not covered by prior headings. The key differentiator is the presence or absence of a material that covers or alters the natural face ply.

As a leaf node, this category does not have further subcategories. Therefore, the focus remains on ensuring that the plywood being classified meets the explicit criteria of being "not surface covered." This includes ensuring no paint, varnish, laminate, or other obscuring material is applied to the primary wood face, preserving its original aesthetic qualities for potential further processing or use in its raw form.