9603 - Brooms, brushes (including brushes constituting parts of machines, appliances or vehicles), hand-operated mechanical floor sweepers, not motorized, mops and feather dusters; prepared knots and tufts for broom or brush making; paint pads and rollers; squeegees (other than roller squeegees):
Sub-classifications
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9603 90
Overview
Category 9603 encompasses a broad range of sweeping, dusting, and application implements designed for manual use or as integral parts of larger systems. This classification includes traditional brooms and brushes, hand-operated mechanical floor sweepers (which are not motorized), mops, and feather dusters. Additionally, it covers prepared knots and tufts intended for broom or brush manufacturing, paint application tools such as pads and rollers, and squeegees (excluding roller types).
Distinguishing 9603 from its sibling categories at the HTS Root level involves recognizing that it focuses on the tools for cleaning, dusting, and applying substances, rather than the items themselves or raw materials. For instance, unlike categories covering live animals or specific machinery components, 9603 deals with the implements used *with* or *by* them. The common thread across all goods in 9603 is their function as a tool for sweeping, dusting, cleaning, or applying materials.
The subcategories within 9603 provide further specificity based on the materials used, the intended application, and the nature of the brush itself. Subheadings differentiate between natural material brooms and brushes (9603.10), personal care brushes and those integrated into appliances, artistic and cosmetic brushes (9603.30), and brushes for painting and applying finishes, along with associated pads and rollers (9603.40). Category 9603.50.00.00 specifically addresses brushes that are parts of machines, appliances, or vehicles, while 9603.90 serves as a catch-all for any other items meeting the general description of 9603 that are not specifically listed elsewhere.