HTS Classification Workshop 2021

  Understanding the United States Harmonized Tariff Schedule (USHTS)

APPROVED FOR 2 CCS/MCS/CES/MES CREDITS

Presented by

Norman Harris, III

Licensed Customs Broker and Certified Customs Specialist

Learn or review how to use the USHTS as a tool for classification and duty estimation. We will cover the General Rules of Interpretation, General notes, Chapter notes and headings.

As part of the entry process, goods must be classified. 19 CFR 152.11

Under 19 U.S.C. 1484, the "importer of record" under paragraph (2)(B), either in person or by an agent authorized by the party in writing, shall, using reasonable care by filing with the Customs Service the declared value, classification and rate of duty applicable to the merchandise.

Prior to the Customs Modernization Act enacted on December 8, 1993, it was CBP’s responsibility to “classify” imported goods.  Classifying goods is for duty purposes and determining whether the goods are subject to quotas, restraints, embargoes or other restrictions.  CBP is now responsible for the final classification and valuation of the goods by a process called “liquidation” of the entry.

Under 19 CFR 177 an importer may request a binding administrative ruling prior to importing.

This course is taught by Norman W. Harris, III, a Licensed Customs Broker and Certified Customs Specialist. He has been a licensed Customs Broker since 1989 and Certified Compliance Manager. He is also a past president of the LACBFFA.

Originally from Washington, D.C., working as a motorcycle messenger in the D.C. area was Norman’s first introduction to international shipping.

He attended college at Boston University earning a Bachelor of Science degree.

After moving to Los Angeles, he started as a runner working his way through the ranks to Senior Supervisor before receiving his Customshouse Brokers License in 1989.

Norman now works with NNR Global Logistics USA Inc.

In 2005, he joined the Board of Directors of the LACBFFA serving as Treasury for six years, then one year each as Vice President, President and Chairman. Since 2009 he continues to teach a ten-week CHB Exam preparation course twice a year for the LACBFFA.