8609.00.00.00 - Containers (including containers for the transport of fluids) specially designed and equipped for carriage by one or more modes of transport

Category 8609.00.00.00 encompasses "Containers (including containers for the transport of fluids) specially designed and equipped for carriage by one or more modes of transport." This broad heading covers a variety of standardized intermodal containers, such as those used for shipping by sea, rail, or road. The key defining characteristic is their specialized design for efficient loading, unloading, and transport across different transportation systems. This includes tank containers for bulk liquids, gases, or powders, as well as dry freight containers.

This category is distinct from other headings within Section XVII which focus on the transport vehicles themselves, or specific parts thereof. While siblings in Chapter 01, for instance, cover live animals, Category 8609.00.00.00 exclusively deals with the cargo containment units, not the animals or the transport equipment that moves them. The emphasis is on the container's structural integrity, standardized dimensions, and inherent suitability for multimodal transport operations.

As a leaf node, this HTS code does not have further subcategories. Therefore, classification within this heading relies on interpreting the primary purpose and design features of the container. For instance, a container designed solely for storage and not for intermodal transport would typically not be classified here. Similarly, portable tanks for specific on-site use, rather than for continuous carriage by multiple transport modes, would likely fall under different headings based on their construction and intended function.