Warships and related military vessels are typically subject to ITAR controls administered by the US State Department's Directorate of Defense Trade Controls, in addition to standard customs entry requirements. Government-to-government agreements and end-use certificates are commonly required. Commercial importers should engage both a licensed customs broker and legal counsel experienced in defense trade compliance.

Lifeboats and rescue craft that are not rowboats fall under 890690 within this heading. Inflatable rescue craft may instead be classified under 8903 (pleasure and sport vessels) or 8907 (floating structures) depending on their design and primary use, so the vessel's specifications and intended deployment should be reviewed carefully against the heading texts.