§55107 Empty cargo containers and barges

Summary

Exempts certain empty cargo containers and related gear from a transport rule when the Secretary of Homeland Security sets conditions. That includes empty cargo vans, lift vans, and shipping tanks; gear used with those items; empty barges meant to be carried on a ship and their non‑propulsion gear; instruments exempt under Tariff Act 322(a); and stevedoring equipment and materials. Most items above must be owned or leased by the vessel’s owner or operator and moved for the vessel’s use in foreign trade. Stevedoring gear must be owned or leased by the vessel owner/operator or the contracted stevedore and moved free for use in foreign trade. Foreign‑flag vessels get the same treatment only if the Secretary of Homeland Security, after consulting the Secretary of State, finds the other country gives U.S. vessels reciprocal privileges.