U.S./Asia lines to require shipper certificates for scrap metal

U.S./Asia lines to require shipper certificates for scrap metal

   U.S.-to-Asia ocean carriers will require U.S. shippers and consignees named in the carrier bill of lading as exporting scrap materials to China to provide copies of valid, current temporary registration certificates from China’s General Administration of Quality Supervision Inspection and Quarantine, under a new tariff rule adopted by the Westbound Transpacific Stabilization Agreement.

   Failing that, the carriers “will not accept the cargo for loading,” the WTSA said Thursday.

   The group of U.S.-to-Asia ocean carriers cited new Chinese health, safety and environmental certification rules for overseas exporters of scrap materials to China due to take effect July 1.

   Container shipping lines are “concerned about potential costs and delays arising from non-compliant shipments,” the group said, and they have agreed on a recommended tariff rule that they say will clarify liability in such cases.

   The guideline rule adopted by WTSA carriers, effective July 1, requires shippers to provide carriers with a copy of the valid certificate and registration number accompanying a shipment.

   “In the event that a scrap shipment is delayed or denied entry into China, a carrier will use its best efforts to advise the customer of record,” the carrier group said. “All other notification, costs, fines and penalties, damage or losses associated with handling, storing, demurrage and subsequent transportation of the cargo will be the shipper’s responsibility,” it warned.

   Under the new Chinese regulations, overseas businesses exporting scrap to China, including intermediaries in Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan, will now be required to apply for two-year temporary registration certificates as overseas “supply enterprises.” The window for applying and receiving certificates is Jan. 1-June 30, according to the carrier group.