Ocean Sea Freight Port Operations and Customs Clearance

Question 1

What is the '24-Hour Rule' for US ocean freight imports?

Accepted Answer

Carriers must submit cargo manifest information to CBP at least 24 hours before loading at the foreign port

Answer

The CBP 24-Hour Rule requires ocean carriers to electronically submit manifest data for US-bound cargo no later than 24 hours before goods are loaded at the foreign port, enabling advance security screening.

Question 2

What is a 'Customs Entry' and when must it be filed for US ocean imports?

Accepted Answer

The formal import declaration filed with CBP, required before cargo can be released from the port

Answer

A Customs Entry (formal entry) is the documentation package filed with CBP by the importer or customs broker to declare imported goods, pay applicable duties, and obtain release of cargo from the port.

Question 3

What is 'Customs Examination' (CET) and what happens to the cargo?

Accepted Answer

CBP physically inspects or scans the container — it may be held at a CET facility for examination and at the importer's expense

Answer

A CBP Customs Examination (CET) means a container is selected for physical inspection or scanning — the cargo may be stripped for examination, causing delays and examination fees charged to the importer.

Question 4

What is a 'DO' (Delivery Order) in ocean freight?

Accepted Answer

A document issued by the carrier or its agent authorizing the terminal to release cargo to the consignee

Answer

A Delivery Order is issued by the carrier or NVOCC after the consignee surrenders the original B/L (or pays freight) — it instructs the terminal to release the cargo to the holder.

Question 5

What is 'Port of Discharge' (POD) vs 'Place of Delivery' in ocean freight?

Accepted Answer

POD is where the vessel unloads the container; Place of Delivery is the final inland destination

Answer

The Port of Discharge is the port where cargo is unloaded from the ocean vessel, while the Place of Delivery (or Final Destination) is the ultimate inland delivery point if the carrier's responsibility extends beyond the port.

Ocean Sea Freight Practice Test

Ocean Sea Freight Practice Test

Ocean Sea Freight Port Operations and Customs Clearance