8704.31.01 - G.V.W. not exceeding 5 metric tons

This HTS category, 8704.31.01, specifically classifies motor vehicles designed for the transport of goods that have a Gross Vehicle Weight (G.V.W.) not exceeding 5 metric tons and are powered by a spark-ignition internal combustion piston engine. This encompasses a wide range of light-duty trucks, vans, and similar commercial vehicles where the primary function is carrying cargo or goods, and their overall weight falls within this specified limit.

It is crucial to distinguish this category from its sibling, 8704.32.01, which covers vehicles of the same engine type but with a G.V.W. exceeding 5 metric tons. Therefore, the defining characteristic for classification within 8704.31.01 is the upper limit of 5 metric tons for the vehicle's gross weight.

This category is further subdivided to provide more granular classification based on precise weight thresholds. The subcategories, 8704.31.01.20 and 8704.31.01.40, differentiate vehicles with a G.V.W. not exceeding 2.5 metric tons from those exceeding 2.5 metric tons but still not exceeding 5 metric tons. This detailed breakdown allows for more accurate statistical tracking and potential tariff differentiation based on the carrying capacity of these light commercial vehicles.