Science, Engineering as an Integral Part of International Trade and the Harmonized Tariff Schedule

Though usually overlooked, science and engineering principles play a key role in the control and regulation of international trade. The proper measurement of products, identification of specific components of products and identification of physical and chemical characteristics of products are needed to properly account for the movement of products across international borders. Of primary importance is how each product in international commerce can be properly classified within the Harmonized Tariff Schedule and how measurement, chemical and physical specifications and engineering characteristics play a key role in almost all classification decisions. Each section of the Harmonized Tariff Schedule has the need to not only measure but also identify physical and chemical characteristics for proper placement in the schedule.