As an importer, the last thing you want is a case of the creepy-crawlies.
If you bring in goods by sea freight, you will be aware that there is an annual seasonal alert for Stink Bugs that hide inside shipping containers and cargo. The bug, known officially as Brown Marmorated Stink Bug (BMSB) is one of the species known as ‘hitchhiker pests.’
The first thing to keep in mind is that the Department of Agriculture Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF) considers it to be your responsibility to ensure that any goods imported are free of biosecurity risk material. Yes, there are many players involved, from your shipper, the container packer, the shipping company and your agents – however the onus is on you to make sure your cargo is treated correctly.
HERE IS A CHECK-LIST FOR YOUR IMPORT SHIPMENT
Is it being shipped withing Season Dates? The season covers containers shipped between 01 September and 30 April each year. This coincides with autumn and winter in the Northern Hemisphere.
Is it from a Target Country? There are more than forty countries on the target list and that includes all the major places of origin you can think of in the Northern Hemisphere. If in doubt, ask us and we’ll check the list for you.
Is it on the Target Goods List? Even if your shipment is not coming in a standard container, e.g. by bulk cargo or on a flat-rack or open-top container, it still might be on the list of target goods, so call us to check the list when you place order for uncontainerised goods.
Who is Authorised to Fumigate the Container? Containers must be treated offshore – not after arrival in Australia. The government keeps a list of approved offshore treatment providers, but it constantly changes and they regularly suspend companies after identification of ‘critical non-compliance.’ Ask us to check your shipper’s service provider against the list.
Tricks to Watch out for at Christmas Time: During the lead up to the festive season DAFF often sees promotional or gift items from suppliers stashed inside containers and – while the main consignment itself is ‘non-target risk’ – these extra gifts can put it at risk.
In past years they have seen free promo material added in such as glasses, metal champagne buckets, promotional tins and cheese knives, all of which are high risk goods and render the container in need of treatment.
The important thing is to talk to us before your consignment is shipped. DAFF have the power to deny entry and have your container re-exported if it does not meet the requirements.
If you have any concerns about your cargo and its quarantine treatment, talk to Andrew at Colless Young, email enq@collessyoung.com.au Tel: +61 7 3890 0800
As licensed Customs Brokers and International Freight Forwarders, we take care of your cargo economically and professionally. Based in Brisbane, Colless Young provides a complete range of logistics services, including clearance through customs and biosecurity (quarantine), by sea and air, at all major Australian ports and airports.
