Unladen weight (also called empty weight or basic operating weight) is the aircraft's weight without fuel, payload, or crew, as certified in the aircraft's type certificate data sheet. The manufacturer's certified empty weight — not the maximum takeoff weight — determines which subheading applies. Importers should obtain the type certificate or weight-and-balance report to support classification.

Yes. Spacecraft, satellites, and their components are frequently controlled under the US International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) or the Export Administration Regulations (EAR), and foreign-origin spacecraft may be subject to equivalent controls in the country of manufacture. Importers and re-exporters must assess licensing requirements with the Directorate of Defense Trade Controls (DDTC) or Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) before moving these goods across borders.

Both business jets and commercial airliners classify by unladen weight under the same subheadings — there is no separate subheading for business versus commercial aviation. A light business jet under 2,000 kg unladen falls under 880220, a mid-size jet between 2,000 and 15,000 kg under 880230, and a large-cabin or heavy jet over 15,000 kg under 880240, the same subheading as wide-body commercial airliners.