Cargo Requirements and Holiday Schedule
(February 11, 2009)

Homeland Security provided a recent press release regarding new requirements for maritime cargo to the United States (attached below). Household goods have been granted special handling for these declarations. The declaration must still be filed electronically with the U.S. Government.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection implemented this on January 26, 2009.

We must have the required information no later than 48 hours prior to loading of the shipment. Although fines will not be initiated on clients who are attempting to comply, we must begin these steps as early as possible. Possible penalties will be:

• Denial of loading
• Denial of entry
• Seizure of shipment

The additional charge for filing this report will be included in all future quotes as a documentation fee and part of the customs clearance process. Remember, the report is needed with all fields completed 48 hours prior to loading the shipment. These forms do not replace any other security/customs forms required.

Press Release - Homeland Security

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