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Philippines – Bureau of Customs (BOC) on Abandon Cargo
January 12, 2017
Dear Customer,
Please note that with immediate effect, consignees must clear all import containers arriving into all ports of the Philippines within 30 days after discharge. Failing which, cargo will be deemed abandoned and automatically owned by the Bureau of Customs, Philippines (BOC).
Consignee has an option to request for the release of cargo, however they will need to file a lifting of abandonment application, subject to the approval of the District Collector (BOC).
Please note that Carriers have no authority over the cargo once it is declared “Abandoned”, and it is up to the BOC’s discretion and decision if the cargo will be auctioned or disposed. Shipper and consignee will be held responsible for all costs including carrier demurrage once container goes under BOC’s jurisdiction.
We would like to bring to your attention that this will bring about a tedious process, which will result in opportunity costs and loss of income for carrier where containers are being held by the authorities.
In order to prevent cargo abandonment, and before bookings are accepted, please kindly ensure that below criteria will be complied with:
Consignees must be a legal importer.
Consignees possess a valid import permit to clear the import shipments.
Consignees possess all pertinent documents to clear the import shipments.
For further information, please contact your local Hapag-Lloyd office.
Kind regards,
Hapag-Lloyd (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd.
as agent of Hapag-Lloyd AG
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