US Coast Guard tightens watch on cargoes

A Guam-based shipping company has warned customers to comply with the packing requirements on items to be shipped out to other ports as the US Coast Guard has begun conducting random inspections on all outbound and inbound cargo.

The Sea-Land Service, Inc. said the US Coast Guard has issued citations on several containers found to be not in compliance with the requirements.

“Numerous citations have been issued for containers moving inbound having incorrect placard, no placards placed on the exterior of the containers, improper packing, and without hazardous material declarations provided,” Sea Land sales manager Edward Cruz wrote in a letter addressed to customers.

Sea Land warned that the once citations are issued, the Coast Guard will hold the shipments until the citations are corrected. Then, the Coast Guard will reinspect the shipment and will advise once approved.

The Coast Guard requires that each hazardous cargo must be declared on the shipping document with the proper shipping name. (MC)