South Africa – 24 Hour Rule

With reference to our previous CustomerInfo dated February 7, 2018 on South African Customs Authorities implementation of the 24 hour filing prior to loading at the port of loading or transhipment, we would like to inform you about the latest update as follows:

Changes effective since April 20, 2018:

• Ocean Carrier’s Master Bill of Lading have to be transmitted in addition to the Freight forwarder / NVOCC House Bills.
• In case the NVOCC files cargo details directly to the Cargo Processing System (CPS), Ocean Carrier Master Bill Number must be inserted.
• For Ocean Carrier Master Bill of lading number, Hapag-Lloyd Customer Service Booking team can provide it on the booking confirmation upon request.
• The self-filer has to pay attention to insert the Carrier SCAC Code “HLCU” on the House Bill(s).
• The self-filer has to provide the Ocean Carrier with self-filer code in case they will directly submit the House Bills to the Cargo Processing System (CPS).
• Any mismatch can result in a no load message from Customs.
• The Ocean Carrier will transmit the Master Bill of Lading to the Cargo Processing System (CPS) parallel to the transmission from the NVOCC for their House Bill(s)
• In case the Ocean Carrier is filing on behalf of non-self-filer NVOCC, the customer has to provide ultimate Shipper & Consignee Details.
• According to the deadlines stipulated by South Africa Customs, amendments will be possible until 72 hours prior to vessel arrival.
  
• South Africa Customs has decided upon a grace period where penalties will not be levied against filing parties till July 31 2018.

In order to comply with the new Customs Regulation Hapag-Lloyd will require complete and correct shipping instructions from the shipper. You will find the documentation closing dates and times as stipulated in your Hapag-Lloyd booking confirmation.

We would encourage all self-filer NVOCC’s to ensure they comply and meet the requirements for the filing of NVOCC House Bills of Lading directly with South Africa Customs.