Meerschaum Pipe with Case from Japan
A traditional meerschaum pipe carved from natural mineral block, lightly colored, with a removable amber stem and protective case. Classified under HTS 9614.00.28.90 as an 'other' pipe, since meerschaum is defined as a carving material but not separately headed in 9614 for complete pipes.
Duty Rate — Japan → United States
12.5%
Rate breakdown
9903.05.4912.5%Except for products described in headings 9903.05.85–9903.05.92, articles the product of Japan, with an ad valorem (or ad valorem equivalent) rate of duty under column 1 less than 12.5 percent, as provided for in U.S. note 52 to this subchapter
Import Tips
• Document the natural origin of meerschaum to distinguish from agglomerated substitutes, which remain in this code
• Declare if sold with cases separately to avoid set classification issues under packaging rules
• Check for precious metal inlays, as minor amounts stay in Chapter 96 but major ones may shift per notes