New Zealand - Advance Electronic Cargo Reporting From 1 July

New Zealand Customs Service news release of 3 June 2004:

Shipping and airline companies carrying cargo to, from, or through New Zealand must meet new Customs' reporting requirements from 1 July.

They will be required to lodge electronic Inward or Outward Cargo Reports, in the format of the New Zealand Customs Service Electronic Cargo Information (ECI) message. The only exemption will be ships or aircraft arriving from Australia, because of the relationship between the New Zealand and Australian Customs Services.

The Inward Cargo Reports for aircraft must be lodged more than two hours in advance of arrival, and for ships must be lodged more than 24 hours in advance of arrival.

Outward Cargo Reports must be lodged no more than two hours after the departure of an aircraft, or 24 hours after departure of a ship.

Customs National Manager Goods Allen Bruford says advance electronic information is needed to identify goods that may pose a risk to the security of New Zealand or the country of destination.

"Internationally, many administrations are requiring advance information. We have been talking to carriers and will continue to work with them to make the transition as smooth as possible."

For any inquiries email [email protected].