URGENT changes in USA sea freight shipment requirements.

DAFF have introduced emergency measures for all break bulk and containerised vehicles, machinery, automotive parts and tyres shipped from the United States to Australia due to the significant number of interceptions of the Brown Marmorated Stink Bug.

Due to the widespread occurrence of this pest in the United States, all specified break bulk and all abovementioned containerised cargo shipped from US east coast ports from 23 February 2015, will be required to be fumigated at origin prior to shipping and be accompanied by a an approved certificate of compliance on arrival in Australia. All remaining US origin ports will be subject to the abovementioned requirements for arrivals on and from 9 March, 2015. These changes will affect importers of break bulk and containerised vehicles, machinery, automotive parts and tyres shipped from the United States. This new requirement will significantly delay shipment arrivals and add to the costs of importing. DAFF believe these measures will be in place until at least April, 2015.

Further detail can be obtained from the below DAFF link.

http://www.agriculture.gov.au/biosecurity/import/general-info/ian/15/03-2015