New Validations of BLs – AMS by Mexican Authorities
The Mexican authorities have initiated random validations of the information in the BLs – AMS. Generic descriptions such as “general cargo”, “dry cargo”, “chemicals”, “perishable foods”, “bulk merchandise,” and similar will be considered incorrect and subject to a penalty of $6,000 USD per container.
Impact on Maritime Cargo
This measure affects all export, import, and transshipment cargo in Mexican ports. Missing or incorrect information will prevent the sending of the manifest to Customs and will result in fines and the liability of the shipper, consignee, and/or notifier.
Key Requirements
To avoid penalties, it is essential that all information on the BLs – AMS is accurate and specific. Corrections without fines must be made at least 2 business days before the arrival of the vessel. Any changes made after this period will be subject to fines.
How to Comply with the New Validations
To comply with these new regulations, shippers and consignees should:
- Review all BLs – AMS information for accuracy and specificity.
- Ensure that descriptions of goods are clear and detailed.
- Submit any necessary corrections at least 2 business days before the vessel’s arrival.
- Stay informed about any updates from Mexican authorities regarding these validations.
“This new validation process is part of Mexico’s ongoing efforts to tighten control over maritime logistics and ensure the accuracy of cargo information.”
Consequences of Non-Compliance
Failure to comply with these new requirements could result in severe penalties, including fines and delays in the clearance of goods. The liability extends to shippers, consignees, and notifiers, making it crucial to adhere to the regulations.