HS Code 8609
Intermodal Shipping Containers
HS code 8609 covers reusable shipping containers specially designed for multimodal transport, including reefers and tank containers for fluid carriage.
4-digit Section XVIIFCL
HS Code 8609 — Intermodal Shipping Containers
These are the standardized reusable boxes used to transport goods by sea, rail, and road. This code includes general dry vans, refrigerated (reefer) containers, and tank containers for liquids.
What's included
- ISO shipping containers
- Refrigerated containers (Reefers)
- Tank containers (ISO tanks)
- Open-top containers
- Swap bodies
What's excluded
- General metal boxes → use
7326(Standard metal boxes not equipped for multimodal transport are articles of steel.)
Common examples
- 40ft High Cube Dry Van
- 20ft ISO Tank Container
- Maersk Refrigerated Container
- Flat rack intermodal unit
Frequently asked questions
Are containers classified separately from their cargo?
Yes, if the container is intended for repeated use in international transport, it is classified under 8609.
Trade & shipping notes
- Typical duty range: 0% - 10%
- Documentation: CSC (Convention for Safe Containers) safety plates must be valid for import/export.
- Typical shipping mode: FCL
- Top exporters: China, South Korea, Poland, Germany
- Top importers: United States, Netherlands, Vietnam, United Arab Emirates
Related HS codes
Key takeaway
Covers the 'box' itself as a piece of transport equipment, not the goods inside.
Related HS codes
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