8467.29.00.55 - Routers

This HTS category, 8467.29.00.55, specifically classifies hand-held tools powered by a self-contained electric motor that function as routers. These tools are designed for the removal of material, typically wood, plastic, or soft metals, through the use of a rotating cutting bit. Their primary application involves shaping, carving, grooving, or trimming various surfaces and materials with precision.

Distinguishing routers from their sibling categories is crucial for accurate classification. While other categories within 8467.29.00 cover tools like grinders, sanders, screwdrivers, and planers, routers are uniquely identified by their specific cutting action and the resultant finish. For instance, grinders and sanders use abrasive materials for surface refinement, whereas routers utilize rotating cutters to excavate material and create profiles or recesses. Similarly, screwdrivers are designed for fastening, and planers for flattening surfaces, neither of which involves the material removal characteristic of routers.

As a leaf node within the HTS, 8467.29.00.55 does not have further subdivisions. Therefore, accurate classification relies on a clear understanding of the tool's primary function and its mechanical operation. Importers should ensure that the item's intended use and design align with the definition of a router, characterized by a motor-driven spindle that holds and rotates interchangeable bits to shape materials.