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General Cargo Freighter

An ocean vessel for break-bulk cargo like crates, machinery, and packaged goods, with crew quarters for persons. It qualifies under HTS 8901.90.00.00 as a vessel for goods transport that also carries persons (crew). Not specialized for containers, liquids, or bulk dry goods.

Import Duty Rates by Country of Origin

Origin CountryMFN RateCh.99 SurchargesTotal Effective Rate
🇨🇳ChinaFree+35.0%35%
🇲🇽MexicoFree+10.0%10%
🇨🇦CanadaFree+10.0%10%
🇩🇪GermanyFree+10.0%10%
🇯🇵JapanFree+10.0%10%

Alternative Classifications

This product could be classified differently depending on its characteristics or intended use.

8901Same rate: 35%

If designed for bulk dry cargo like grain or coal

Bulk carriers have specialized holds without mixed passenger features, shifting to 8901.50.

8905.20.00.00Same rate: 35%

If under 20 meters and used for floating services

Smaller vessels for non-transport like dredging fall under 8905.

8906Lower: 10% vs 35%

If imported as an unassembled freighter hull

Chapter notes place incomplete vessels in 8906 until essential character is imparted.

Not sure which classification is right?

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Import Tips & Compliance

Submit Lloyd's Register or equivalent classification certificate proving multi-purpose cargo holds

Document crew capacity separately to affirm 'both persons and goods' status under this subheading

Related Products under HTS 8901.90.00.00

Container Roll-on Roll-off Ship

A large ocean-going vessel designed primarily for transporting containerized cargo using roll-on/roll-off technology, with capacity for both goods and limited passengers. It falls under HTS 8901.90.00.00 as a vessel for the transport of goods and both persons and goods, distinct from pure tankers or bulk carriers. These ships feature ramps for vehicle and container loading.

Passenger-Cargo Ferry

A ferry boat equipped to carry both passengers and vehicles or goods across short sea routes or inland waterways. Classified under HTS 8901.90.00.00 for its dual purpose of transporting persons and goods, excluding pure excursion or cruise vessels. Features include vehicle decks and passenger cabins.

Coaster Cargo Ship

A small coastal vessel for short-haul transport of general goods between ports, carrying crew and limited passengers. Classified in HTS 8901.90.00.00 as 'other' for mixed persons/goods transport, not ocean-going giants. Typically under 500 GRT with tween decks.

Supply Vessel for Offshore Platforms

Platform supply vessel (PSV) transporting goods like drilling supplies to oil rigs, carrying crew. HTS 8901.90.00.00 for goods and persons transport in offshore ops. Features dynamic positioning and cargo tanks.

Barge-Carrying Ship

LASH (Lighter Aboard Ship) vessel that loads barges as cargo for ocean transport, with persons aboard. Under HTS 8901.90.00.00 as other goods transport vessel. Deck-strengthened for barge stacks.

Livestock Carrier Ship

Vessel for transporting live animals as cargo (sheep, cattle), with veterinary facilities and crew. HTS 8901.90.00.00 for goods (livestock) and persons. Ventilated holds and ramps.