STEP 1
Open the live HTS
Use the USITC HTS official HTML. Do not call /searchByNumber or any HTS REST. Quote the live schedule.
STEP 2
GRI 1 — headings and notes
Classification is determined by the terms of the headings and any relative section or chapter notes. This is not ITAR § 120.11 and not EAR Part 732.
STEP 3
GRI 2–6 only if GRI 1 does not settle it
Incomplete/unassembled (2), two or more headings (3), most akin (4), cases/packing (5), then subheadings (6). Additional U.S. Rules of Interpretation apply as published in the HTS.
STEP 4
Entry and appraisement are not the heading
Part 141/142 is how merchandise is entered. Part 152 is classification and appraisement of the entered goods. Neither is a USML paragraph.