💾 Data Updated: Latest version • Last updated: December 09, 2025

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 🖩

Details

FieldValue
Unit of QuantityNo.
General Rate of Duty (Column 1 - General)Free
Special Rate of Duty (Column 1 - Special)N/A
Column 2 Rate of Duty25%
Quota QuantityN/A
Additional DutiesN/A
About Duty Rates: Rates are divided into Column 1 and Column 2. Column 1 is subdivided into General (normal trade relations rates for all countries not eligible for special programs) and Special (preferential rates for countries with free trade agreements or preference programs). Column 2 rates apply to products from Cuba, North Korea, Belarus, and Russia. When no special rate exists for a classification, General rates apply.

Overview

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

›What is HTS code 8609.00.00.00?
HTS code 8609.00.00.00 covers Containers (including containers for the transport of fluids) specially designed and equipped for carriage by one or more modes of transport under the US Harmonized Tariff Schedule. It falls under Chapter 86: Railway or tramway locomotives, rolling-stock and parts thereof; railway or tramway track fixtures and fittings and parts thereof; mechanical (including electro-mechanical) traffic signalling equipment of all kinds.
›What products are classified under 8609.00.00.00?
This classification covers Containers (including containers for the transport of fluids) specially designed and equipped for carriage by one or more modes of transport. It falls under Chapter 86: Railway or tramway locomotives, rolling-stock and parts thereof; railway or tramway track fixtures and fittings and parts thereof; mechanical (including electro-mechanical) traffic signalling equipment of all kinds.
›What is the import duty rate for 8609.00.00.00?
The general rate of duty for HTS 8609.00.00.00 is Free. The Column 2 rate is 25%.
›What unit of quantity is used for 8609.00.00.00?
Imports under HTS 8609.00.00.00 are measured in No..

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