Import:

1. The Port of Tauranga rail connection to and from Metroport will be closed for maintenance during the Labour holiday long weekend from October 21st to October 23rd. This temporary closure will have several impacts on container operations:

• • Export Containers: The closure will bring forward the cutoff for the receival of export containers to Metroport. Exporters will need to plan their shipments accordingly to meet this earlier cutoff.
  • Import Containers: Import containers destined to arrive at the Auckland inland port of Metroport towards the end of October will experience longer lead times. Importers should consider this extended lead time when scheduling their shipments and distribution plans.

           It’s important for businesses and individuals involved in shipping and logistics to be aware of this temporary closure and adjust their schedules and plans accordingly to minimize disruptions and ensure a smooth flow of goods during this period.

 

      2. The issue of overall container depot capacity in Auckland remains unresolved, and it is causing delays in the shipping and logistics industry. Specifically, there are limited dehire slots available at several large sites in Auckland. This shortage of dehire slots is contributing to delays in the handling and processing of containers, which can have a cascading effect on the entire supply chain.

          Dehire slots are crucial for returning containers after they have been used for shipping. When there is a shortage of dehire slots, it can lead to congestion, longer waiting times, and delays in container handling and processing. These delays can impact the timely movement of goods and disrupt supply chain operations.

           Addressing the issue of container depot capacity and the availability of dehire slots is essential for improving the efficiency and reliability of container operations in Auckland. It may require collaboration and coordination among stakeholders in the shipping and logistics industry to find solutions that can alleviate this problem and minimize delays. 

 

      3. The Port of Auckland is currently facing several challenges that are causing delays and disruptions in its operations:

• • Gantry Crane Mechanical Issues: Mechanical problems with a gantry crane at the Fergusson container terminal in the west are contributing to delays. Gantry cranes are essential for unloading and loading containers from vessels, and when they experience technical issues, it can slow down the entire container handling process.
  • Labour Resourcing Issues: Labor shortages and resourcing problems are also impacting operations. Adequate labor is necessary for various tasks within the port, and a shortage can lead to delays in container handling and logistics operations.
  • Vessels Arriving Outside Allocated Windows: When vessels arrive outside their allocated time windows, it can create congestion and disrupt schedules. Ports typically allocate specific time slots for vessels to ensure smooth operations, but deviations from these schedules can lead to inefficiencies.
  • Shortage of VBS (Vehicle Booking System) Bookings: The shortage of VBS bookings for uplifting import containers is another contributing factor to the disruptions. The VBS is a critical system for managing the flow of vehicles and containers within the port, and when there is a shortage of available bookings, it can lead to delays in container pickup and delivery.

          These issues highlight the complexities and challenges involved in port operations and the importance of effective maintenance, labor management, and scheduling to ensure the efficient movement of goods. Addressing these challenges will be essential to minimize disruptions and improve the overall performance of the Port of Auckland.

 

      4. The Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) has announced that the Brown Marmorated Stink Bug (BMSB) season is now underway. If you are involved in the import or export of goods and require clearance from MPI, it’s essential to forward all necessary documents as soon as possible to avoid the possibility of delays. Timely submission of required documentation is crucial to ensure compliance with MPI’s regulations and to prevent any potential holdups in the clearance process related to BMSB inspections and quarantine measures.

           To avoid disruptions in your import or export operations, be proactive in submitting the required documents and adhering to any specific guidelines provided by MPI for managing BMSB during this season. Complying with their regulations and providing the necessary information promptly will help streamline the clearance process and minimize the risk of delays associated with BMSB-related inspections and treatments.

 

     5. There has been an increase in Customs examinations in New Zealand in recent weeks. These examinations can lead to delays in cargo release, with some delays lasting several days. If you are involved in shipping and logistics, it’s crucial to plan for potential delays and work closely with New Zealand Customs to facilitate the timely release of your cargo.

          Customs examinations are a part of the regulatory process to ensure compliance with import and export regulations. While they are necessary for security and compliance reasons, they can impact the flow of goods. Collaborating with New Zealand Customs to provide accurate and complete documentation and information can help expedite the examination and release process, reducing delays and ensuring the efficient movement of cargo.

          Staying informed about the current customs procedures and any updates or changes in regulations is essential to manage these potential delays effectively and maintain the smooth operation of your supply chain.

 

      6. It’s important to note that there will be a significant change coming to the Container Checks Portal (CCP) in early 2024, as announced by Biosecurity New Zealand. This change is part of a broader effort to upgrade internal border systems and provide a more stable platform for the future. Here are the key points about this upcoming transition:

• • Introduction of a New CCP Version: Biosecurity New Zealand will introduce a new version of the CCP for the electronic submission of container inspection results by Accredited Persons.
  • Requirement to Use RealMe: The most significant change is the requirement to use RealMe for system access. RealMe is a secure authentication system used for accessing government online services. It will bring the CCP in line with other MPI systems available to external stakeholders.
  • RealMe Login: If you already have a RealMe login, it will work for the new CCP once it’s set up. If you don’t have one, you can set up a RealMe login at any time in preparation for this change.
  • Changes to the User Interface: While there will be changes to the look and feel of the system, the basic functionality remains the same. You will still be able to enter inspection details for your sea and air containers and manage the Transitional Facilities as you do now.
  • Direct Submission for Larger Transitional Facilities: There are efforts to set up an option for larger Transitional Facilities to submit container checks directly from their in-house container record systems.
  • Direct Submission for Larger Transitional Facilities: There are efforts to set up an option for larger Transitional Facilities to submit container checks directly from their in-house container record systems.

          It’s important to stay updated on this transition and prepare for the changes, especially the use of RealMe for accessing the new CCP version. Adapting to these changes will help ensure a smooth transition and continued efficient use of the system for container inspection and management.

 

 

Export: 

        The ongoing move count restrictions in ports like Lyttelton and Tauranga are having significant impacts on shipping operations and port rotations. These restrictions are causing late changes to port rotations and, in some cases, even port omissions. Here’s a breakdown of the situation:

• • Move Count Restrictions: Move count restrictions typically refer to limitations on the number of containers or cargo moves that can be processed within a specific time frame at a port. These restrictions can result from various factors, including labor shortages, equipment limitations, or other operational challenges.
  • Late Changes to Port Rotations: When move count restrictions are in place, shipping companies may be forced to make late changes to their planned port rotations. This can include altering the order of port calls or adjusting the timing of vessel arrivals and departures. These changes are often necessary to accommodate the operational limitations at the affected ports.
  • Port Omissions: In some cases, move count restrictions can lead to port omissions, where a scheduled port call is entirely canceled. This can disrupt supply chains and impact the delivery of cargo to specific regions. Port omissions can be costly and create logistical challenges for both shippers and carriers.

        The effects of move count restrictions are particularly challenging for the shipping industry, as they can lead to delays, increased costs, and a need for flexibility in scheduling and logistics planning. To mitigate these issues, close communication and collaboration between shipping companies, port authorities, and other stakeholders are essential. Finding solutions to alleviate move count restrictions and improve port efficiency is crucial to maintaining the reliability and performance of supply chains.