HS Code:
This category pertains to equipment, parts of equipment, repair parts, materials, and the expenses of repairs made in a foreign country for LASH (Lighter Aboard Ship) barges utilized as cargo containers, upon their first arrival in any port of the United States. LASH barges are specialized vessels designed to be carried aboard larger ships, facilitating the transport of goods in a modular and efficient manner. This classification is typically used for customs and tariff purposes to monitor and regulate the importation of such equipment and associated costs, ensuring compliance with international trade agreements and domestic regulations.
Total Trade Volume
USD 150 million
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database / U.S. Customs and Border Protection
Average Rate
3.5%
Highest Rate
5.0% (applied by certain countries for specific components)
Lowest Rate
0% (under specific free trade agreements like USMCA)
Increased adoption of LASH systems in global shipping
Rising demand for specialized equipment and repair services due to the efficiency of LASH barges in reducing port congestion and turnaround times.
2021-2022
Shift towards sustainable shipping practices
Growing emphasis on eco-friendly materials and repairs for LASH barges, influencing trade patterns and costs.
2020-2022
Technological advancements in barge design
Higher costs for modernized equipment but improved long-term efficiency and reduced maintenance expenses.
2019-2022
The U.S. Trade Representative announced a temporary reduction in tariffs for LASH barge repair parts to encourage compliance with international shipping standards.
March 2023
Expected to increase imports of repair parts by 10-15% over the next year.
The European Union introduced stricter documentation requirements for repairs made in non-EU countries, affecting LASH barge operators.
January 2023
Potential delays in customs clearance for EU-bound shipments involving LASH barges.
South Korea unveiled a government-backed initiative to develop advanced LASH barge systems, boosting exports of related equipment.
October 2022
Increased market share for South Korean manufacturers in the global trade of LASH equipment.