HS Code for Container ship

Container ships are classified under HS code 8901.90. Heading 8901 covers vessels for the transport of persons or goods, including cruise ships, ferry-boats, and cargo ships. Within this heading, the nomenclature distinguishes between vessels for persons (8901.10), tankers (8901.20), and refrigerated vessels (8901.30). Container ships, which are designed to carry standardized cargo units but do not fall into the specific categories of tankers or reefers, are classified under the residual subheading 8901.90, which covers 'other vessels for the transport of goods.' The classification is determined by the vessel's structural design, which typically includes cell guides in the holds to secure containers. This classification remains applicable whether the vessel is a massive ultra-large container vessel (ULCV) or a smaller feeder ship, as long as its primary purpose is the commercial transport of goods in containers across maritime routes.

Products Included

• Fully cellular container ships
• Feeder vessels for container transport
• Panamax and Post-Panamax container ships
• Multi-purpose vessels primarily configured for containers
• Self-sustaining container ships with onboard cranes
• Ultra-large container vessels (ULCV)

Common Misclassification

Container ships are sometimes confused with HS code 8905, which covers light-vessels, fire-floats, and floating cranes. However, 8905 is reserved for vessels where the navigational function is subsidiary to the main function (like lifting or pumping). Since a container ship's primary function is transport, 8901 is the only appropriate heading. Another error involves HS code 8906, which covers 'other vessels' including warships and lifeboats; this is a residual category that should only be used if the vessel does not fit the transport descriptions in 8901.

FAQ

What is the HS code for container ship?

The HS code for a container ship used for the transport of goods is 8901.90.

Are refrigerated container ships classified differently?

If the entire vessel is designed specifically as a refrigerated cargo ship, it may fall under 8901.30; however, standard container ships carrying 'reefer' containers remain under 8901.90.