To classify under 8609, a container must be specially designed and equipped for carriage by one or more modes of transport, meaning it has structural features enabling secure transfer between transport modes—such as corner castings for crane lifting and ISO-standard fittings. A plain storage tank or box without such multimodal-transfer features would not qualify and would be classified under the heading appropriate to its construction material or function.

Shipping containers that enter the US temporarily—for example, to deliver cargo and then return abroad—may qualify for duty-free treatment under the Customs Temporary Importation under Bond (TIB) provisions or under the terms of applicable international agreements on container customs treatment. Containers imported for sale or permanent retention in the US are subject to the standard HTS duty, including any applicable Section 301 surcharges for Chinese-origin units.