The U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Marketing Service, Cotton Division has made vast improvements in several areas of its operation over the course of the last three years. Advancements in Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning systems and High Volume Instrument classification technology as well as the development and implementation of process flow automation, rapid conditioning of cotton samples, and operation mechanization have resulted in a more efficient process yielding the most accurate and timely classification results possible. The advancements made in the classification process reflect the Cotton Division's ongoing efforts to improve the services provided to its customers.