Import Guide
Steamship Company
  1. Notify consignee two days prior to ship's arrival
  2. Provides freight release to terminal operator
Broker
  1. Obtains customs release, freight release, department of agriculture clearance, etc., before contacting motor carrier.
  2. Forwards to motor carrier an original of the domestic Bill of Lading and an Original Delivery Order, which authorizes pickup of import cargo
  3. Check Bill of Lading of completeness:
    • number of packages
    • description of cargo
    • marks and numbers
    • inland destination
    • gross weights of each commodity shipped
    • consignee's name, address
    • contact, phone & fax number
  4. Checks Delivery Order for completeness
    • forwarder's name
    • shipper's name
    • ultimate consignee's name
    • motor carrier making pickup
    • vessel
    • arrival date
    • voyage number
    • ocean bill of lading number
    • pier number and location
    • marks and numbers
    • number of packages
    • description of goods
    • gross weight
    • legible signature
    • container number
  5. Arrange payment to terminal operator any outstanding charge
Motor Carrier
  1. Secures an equipment interchange agreement with steamship company
  2. Ascertains expiration of free time and availability of cargo for pickup before dispatching drive to pier
  3. Provides driver with original and copy of Delivery Order before departure to pier
  4. Contact terminal operator to make appointment, if required, at least 24 hours before pickup
  5. Checks Bill of Lading and Delivery Order for completeness, as above
  6. Dispatches truck to the pier
Terminal Operator
  1. Issues pass to drivers at gatehouse
  2. Checks Delivery Order for completeness and legibility, as above
  3. Verifies motor carrier's credit rating for loading charges
  4. Makes arrangements for payment of any outstanding charges.
  5. Direct driver to pier customs office
Customs
  1. Verifies driver's papers against prolonged Customs permits
  2. Release Cargo
Terminal Operator
  1. Calls driver for loading
  2. Assigns checker to verity loading at a designated location
Customs
  1. Examines cargo and authorizes release of cargo
Terminal Operator
  1. Loads cargo onto vehicle with pier personnel. Exceptions are noted by checker.
  2. Retains original Delivery Order.
Driver
  1. Supervises loading of vehicle
  2. Sigma tally and loading ticker. Exception and shortages noted
  3. Reports back to delivery office, If required.
  4. Retains copy of Delivery Order
  5. Surrenders gate pass at gatehouse
Motor Carrier
  1. Advises broker of completion of cargo pickup
Source: Based in part on material previously published by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey.