MSC wishes to provide customers with an update on Import Cargo in South Africa.

To adhere to the requirements outlined by Transnet which requires the clearance and assignment of containers prior to berthing, Import Release documents (complete and accurate) for Essential Cargo must be submitted no later than 96 hours prior vessel ETA.

Where the deadline falls on a Saturday, Sunday or a public holiday, release documents must be submitted to MSC by 14H00 on the previous working day.

It is the customers’ responsibility to ensure they have the required certification defining their cargo as Essential and that their contracted transporters have the necessary permits to allow movement outside the ports.

Essential Goods:

Cargo not collected within the free time of the various Transnet Port Terminals, will be moved by MSC contracted transporters into a nominated overstay depot on the account of the customer.

Non-Essential Goods:

The relevant authorities are not allowing the movement of non-essential cargo out of the terminals but we are informed that changes to the directives are forthcoming in order to decongest the various terminals. Once legislation has been passed TPT will instruct shipping lines to move non-essential cargo to our depots.   

Imports Temporary Charges effective 27 March to 16 April 2020 (both days inclusive)

Rail cancellation and Redirections fees will be reduced by 50%.

Uncleared cargo - overstay charges will be reduced by 50% for all DRY non-essential cargo moved to our depots. 

Import Demurrage for cleared cargo for the period 27 March 2020 until 16 April 2020

will be deemed as “free days” for Import Demurrage calculations for DRY non-essential cargo.

Reefer cargo is deemed as essential cargo and normal tariff will therefore apply.

For specific questions please contact your MSC local agent.