8306.10.00.00 - Bells, gongs and the like, and parts thereof

This HTS category, 8306.10.00.00, specifically covers bells, gongs, and similar articles that are neither electrical nor electronic in nature and are manufactured from base metal. This includes a wide array of items such as handbells, desk bells, doorbells (non-electric), and large gongs used in various settings. The classification extends to parts and accessories intended for these articles, provided they are also made of base metal. The primary defining characteristic for inclusion here is the sound-producing mechanism, irrespective of size or intended use, as long as it operates without electricity and is constructed from base metal.

It is crucial to distinguish this category from its siblings within heading 8306. While this subheading focuses solely on sound-producing base metal articles, the sibling categories cover distinct groups of ornamental or functional base metal items. Specifically, 8306.29.00.00 addresses statuettes and other ornaments, while 8306.30.00.00 encompasses photograph frames, mirrors, and their respective parts. Therefore, an item classified under 8306.10.00.00 would not be an ornamental figurine or a picture frame, even if it were made of base metal; its primary function must be sound generation.

As a leaf node, 8306.10.00.00 does not have further subcategories. This means that all non-electric, base metal bells, gongs, and similar sound-producing articles, along with their base metal parts, fall directly under this specific HTS code. Classification relies heavily on the physical characteristics and intended use of the article, ensuring that only items designed to produce sound through striking or resonating mechanisms are included, and that they are indeed constructed from base metals such as iron, steel, aluminum, copper, or their alloys.