HS Code for Shipping Containers
The HS Code for shipping containers is 860900. The MFN duty rate for importing to the US is Free.
| HS Code (6-digit) | 860900 |
|---|---|
| US Duty Rate (MFN) | Free |
| EU Duty Rate (MFN) | 0% |
| Chapter | 86 |
| Heading | 8609 |
| Last Updated | 2026-05 |
Description
Containers specially designed for carriage by one or more modes of transport
HS Code 860900 covers shipping containers specially designed for intermodal freight transport, with a US MFN duty rate of Free.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the potential additional duties and fees when importing shipping containers under HTS 860900?
Beyond standard customs duties, you may be subject to a 25% Section 301 tariff if the containers originate from China. Additionally, you must pay the Merchandise Processing Fee (MPF), which is 0.3464% of the entered value (minimum $29.22, maximum $648.66) per formal entry.
Are used shipping containers imported under HTS 860900 subject to specific ISPM 15 wood packaging compliance regulations?
Yes. If a used shipping container has a wooden floor or other structural wood components, it is subject to the International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures No. 15 (ISPM 15). The container must be marked with an official ISPM 15 stamp certifying the wood has been heat-treated or fumigated to prevent pest infestation, or it may be refused entry or face mandatory treatment upon arrival.
What are the international shipping and handling requirements for 40-foot intermodal shipping containers under HTS 860900?
Intermodal containers must be structurally sound, wind- and watertight, and have valid CSC (Container Safety Convention) safety approval plates for international vessel transport. They are typically moved as wheeled cargo on roll-on/roll-off (RORO) vessels or lifted via their standardized corner castings onto container ships. Proper documentation, including a detailed physical condition report, is required to avoid disputes over damage during multimodal transit.
Seasonal Import Patterns for Shipping Containers
Imports of shipping containers (HTS 8609.00) typically show a strong seasonal peak in the late summer and early autumn (July-October), as retailers and manufacturers build inventory for the holiday season and year-end demand. A secondary, smaller peak often occurs in late winter (February-March) ahead of the spring retail season. Data from the U.S. Census Bureau shows monthly import values can fluctuate by 20-30% between low and peak seasons. This cyclicality is directly tied to global retail and manufacturing cycles, rather than the containers themselves being seasonal goods.
Container Safety & Certification Requirements
Containers for international transport must comply with the International Convention for Safe Containers (CSC). A valid CSC safety approval plate must be permanently affixed to the container. For containers carrying dangerous goods, compliance with the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMD) Code is required. U.S. imports are subject to inspection by the Coast Guard for CSC compliance, and non-compliant units may be detained or refused entry.
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