Port Metro Vancouver – Diverted Cargo

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Canada Border Services Agency Mar 27, 2014

CBSA in the Pacific region have issued instructions on the process to release cargo that has been diverted to a U.S. port, due to the labour dispute at Port Metro Vancouver.

Port Metro Vancouver Labour Disruption

On February 26, 2014, the United Trucker Association withdrew their services fro the Port of Metro Vancouver affecting the Centerm, Vanterm, Deltaport and Fraser-Surrey Docks Terminals. On March 12, 2014, uninionized container truck drivers (UNIFOR) also withdrew their services, increasing the impact of the service disruption. Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) has received numerous requests from importers, exporters, brokers, freight forwarders and carriers, who are seeking alternative avenues to ensure their cargo is not unnecessarily held and that releases can be facilitated. As a result, companies are requesting diversion of cargo to a U.S. port of entry in order to discharge cargo for delivery to Canada via truck and rail.

Previous Procedures:

In the past, the CBSA was able to utilize a contingency plan named "V Number Privilege" to facilitate the ease of passage through the frontier ports for diverted freight.

New Procedures:

In our current environment, with Advanced Commercial Information (ACI) processing, the previous contingency plan can no longer apply. As a result, clients must ensure tha they continue to follow all existing guidance documents such as D-Memorandum and ACI Participants Requirements Documents. As as continue to expect diversions, the CBSA advises clients that all elements of the Customs Act and its regulations will be enforced.

For containers that have already received a release from the CBSA and were subsequently laden on board a vessel diverted to the Port of Seattle or Tacoma, we ask that brokers/ importers perpare and submit a Value Included (VI) release request. This will provide proof to the border services officer (BSO) that the goods have been released.

Cargo shipments that do not meet the ACI requirements may be subject to CBSA enforcement actions. All other laws and regulations enforced by the CBSA are applicable to these shipments and conveyances. In addition, the CBSA would like to remind clients that all shipments must continue to comply with the regulations of other government departments, where applicable.

Please direct all questions regarding this memorandum to:
Anthony Krilow, Regional Program Officer
Ph#: 604-666-0601
Email: Anthony.Krilow@cbsa-asfc.gc.ca
Or
Brian Davies, Regional Program Officer
Ph#: 604-666-2391
Email: Brian.Davies@cbsa-asfc.gc.ca 

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