USA – News Update for North American Shippers
We’re operating in a new normal today. We remain committed to keeping the Hillebrand network fully operational, with business continuity protocols in place around the globe. With tightening restrictions worldwide, shipping demand is dropping and this will prolong the disruption to ocean service schedules, equipment supply and financial pressure for carriers. Learn more about what to expect for shipping in the next few months and what you can do to navigate in today’s update for the North American Market (4/2/2020). (Contact us if you are not on the distribution)
Mexico Shipments
New containment measures were announced for Mexico and it wasn’t immediately clear how beverage alcohol (beer, wine and spirits) would be classified. In a press conference yesterday in Jalisco it was announced that tequila production was closely connected with the agricultural sector and would continue. We also reached out to major beer suppliers who reported that they remain operational. We will provide more information if we get official confirmation of any changes. A country by country daily update is available on Hillebrand’s website here.
TTB Postpones Due Dates for Tax and Other Related Filings
We have been monitoring this topic as well after the CBP stopped taking requests for duty deferrals last week. Yesterday the TTB issued a special edition announcing a 90 day postponement for excise tax-relating filings due to the COVID-19, you can read the announcement here.
We reached out to the CBP as they have yet to publish guidance on how this will impact import shipments and this information is expected to be forthcoming (no detail on the timing) in the cargo systems messaging service (CSMS). In the meantime the CBP has created a new webpage covering trade announcements related to COVID-19 here.
Good Friday Holiday April 10, 2020
Next Friday April 10th, 2020 is a holiday for most port operators and we expect either terminal / rail ramp closures or adjusted hours/shifts depending on vessel schedules. Hillebrand offices will be closed, but warehouses will be operational, continuing with current safety protocols. An important reminder for import customs – be sure to adjust ISF filings dates forward accordingly.