Tax Rate for Leasing Container Houses

For container leasing in international freight, the value-added tax (VAT) rate applicable to general taxpayers is 13%, while small-scale taxpayers are subject to a 3% levy rate. Here are the details:

I. Applicable Taxpayers for Tax Rates

The applicability of VAT rates is directly related to the taxpayer's identity. General taxpayers use the general tax calculation method and are subject to a 13% tax rate; small-scale taxpayers use the simplified tax calculation method with a levy rate of 3%. This distinction reflects the differential management of the VAT system for taxpayers of different business scales.

II. Policy Basis for Tax Rates

According to the evolution of VAT rates for operating lease services, in the early stages of the business tax-to-VAT reform in 2016, all lease services were uniformly subject to a 17% tax rate. Later, it was gradually refined into a dual structure of 13% for tangible movable property leasing and 9% for real estate leasing. Containers used in international freight fall under the category of tangible movable property leasing, and thus are subject to a 13% tax rate. This policy framework has continued to this day, providing stable tax rate expectations for container leasing businesses.

III. Handling of Special Business Scenarios

1. Comprehensive Lease Services: If the container leasing contract includes ancillary services such as loading, unloading, and transportation, income should be split according to the nature of the business. The pure equipment leasing part is taxed at 13%, while ancillary services may be subject to a 9% tax rate for transportation services or other tax items.
2. Impact of Cross-border Business: Although international freight scenarios may involve cross-border services, the applicability of VAT rates mainly depends on the nature of the leased property rather than the business location. Unless zero-rate or tax-exempt conditions are met, the domestic tangible movable property leasing tax rate still applies.
3. Preferential Policies for Small-scale Taxpayers: In 2024, the policy of exempting small-scale VAT taxpayers from VAT for monthly sales below 100,000 yuan continues to be implemented, but the levy rate remains unchanged at 3%. Eligible small-scale taxpayers can叠加 enjoy tax relief.