Refrigerated vessels are purpose-built with integrated refrigeration systems designed to carry temperature-sensitive cargo such as perishable foodstuffs. General cargo and multipurpose vessels (890190) lack this specialized refrigeration infrastructure. If a vessel has only incidental refrigerated capacity, it would typically fall under 890190.

The Jones Act (46 U.S.C. § 55102) restricts coastwise trade to US-built, US-flagged, and US-crewed vessels. Importing a foreign-built vessel does not automatically permit it to carry cargo between US ports; operators must assess coastwise trade eligibility separately from the customs classification and duty treatment at entry.