Rough Pine Utility Poles from Japan
Unstripped pine poles used for electrical and telephone line support, roughly squared but retaining bark in places. Classified under HTS 4403.99.0128 as poles in the rough, not further worked beyond basic preparation for use as structural supports.
Duty Rate — Japan → United States
10%
Rate breakdown
9903.76.0110%Softwood timber and lumber products provided for in subdivision (b) of U.S. note 37 of this subchapter
9903.05.900%Articles already subject to Section 232 (steel/aluminum/copper + derivatives, autos + parts, wood, medium/heavy vehicles + parts, semiconductors, patented pharma) — U.S. note 52(f)
Import Tips
• Verify species origin documentation as coniferous softwoods must match HTS specifications; fumigation certificates often required
• Measure dimensions to confirm 'rough' status - poles exceeding planed tolerances shift to finished lumber headings
• Avoid misclassification by ensuring no significant machining; common pitfall is shipping with partial peeling mistaken for sawn wood