9902.15.03 - Fire escape ladders measuring 4.4 m or more but not more than 7.4 m tall when fully extended, tested to support 510.3 kg of weight and designed to be hung from a window measuring 15 cm or more but not over 25 cm; such ladders each composed of window brackets and rungs (stairs) of steel and rope of man-made fibers that connects the rungs to each other and to the window bracket; with slip resistant rungs and stabilizers, the foregoing for residential use, valued not over $34.50 each (provided for in subheading 7326.90.86)
Details
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Unit of Quantity | N/A |
| General Rate of Duty (Column 1 - General) | Free |
| Special Rate of Duty (Column 1 - Special) | No change |
| Column 2 Rate of Duty | No change |
| Quota Quantity | N/A |
| Additional Duties | N/A |
Overview
This HTS category, 9902.15.03, specifically covers temporary modifications related to imported fire escape ladders. These ladders are defined by precise physical and performance specifications: they must be between 4.4 and 7.4 meters in length when fully extended, capable of supporting 510.3 kg, and designed for windows measuring 15 cm to 25 cm. Crucially, the construction materials are stipulated as steel for window brackets and rungs, and man-made fibers for the connecting rope, with features such as slip-resistant rungs and stabilizers. These ladders are intended solely for residential use and must be valued at no more than $34.50 each.
Given its placement within Chapter 99, this classification is distinct from the standard goods classified in Chapters 01 through 98. While siblings at the HTS Database Root level represent broad categories of goods like live animals (e.g., 0101, 0102), this specific entry addresses a temporary import restriction or modification applicable to a very narrowly defined product. The distinction lies in the chapter's purpose: Chapter 99 is reserved for special, temporary provisions, not the general classification of merchandise.
As HTS 9902.15.03 is a leaf node, it does not have subcategories. Therefore, the focus for classification remains on the detailed product specifications outlined in its description. The value of the ladder and its intended use (residential) are key determining factors for its applicability under this specific provision, which operates under the framework of temporary legislation and trade agreement modifications.