DOJ Defends CBP Classification of Auto Parts

The Department of Justice defended CBP's classification of five different categories of automobile parts in a May 13 reply brief further supporting its cross-motion for summary judgment in the Court of International Trade. The classification case involves 28 products from Jing Mei Automotive (USA), including: 1) interior trim, 2) door handles, 3) exterior trim, 4) mirror scalps and 5) emblems or wheel trim parts. After agreeing with Jing Mei on the proper classification for two side mirror scalp types and two plastic emblems, DOJ now asserts that the remaining parts under consideration are classifiable under Harmonized Tariff Schedule Chapter 39 while Jing Mei argues for Chapter 87.

The remaining classification disputes are over plastic automobile trim and handle parts, whether Category One and Three automobile trim parts meet the common definition of "fittings," whether Category Two door handle parts are fittings, whether axles are wheels and axle covers are part of a wheel and the extent to which auto parts are parts of general use.