Avoiding cargo rejection: a shipper's biosecurity compliance checklist

A rejected shipment is one of the most expensive things that can happen to a trader. Beyond the cost of re-treatment, there's demurrage, storage, re-booking, missed contracts and the reputational hit of a late delivery. The good news is that most rejections come down to a handful of avoidable issues. Use this checklist to keep your cargo moving.

Before you book

• Know the destination's requirements. Every country — and often every commodity — has its own accepted treatments and tolerances. Confirm them before you commit to a shipping date.
• Check for seasonal measures. Windows such as the BMSB risk season can change what's required based on arrival dates, not order dates.
• Verify your packaging. Solid-wood packaging and dunnage must meet ISPM-15. Don't assume a supplier's pallets are compliant — check the stamp.

Before treatment

• Identify the right fumigant and dose. The commodity, pest risk and destination all shape the correct treatment.
• Confirm the enclosure holds gas. Whether it's a silo, container or tarped stack, gas retention is what makes a treatment effective.
• Use an approved, licensed provider. Only treatments carried out and certified by an approved fumigator will be recognised.

Before departure and on arrival

• Keep records together. Treatment certificates and phytosanitary documentation should travel with the shipping paperwork.
• Allow time for clearance. Build treatment and certification into your schedule rather than leaving it to the last cut-off.
• Have a contact who can act fast. If something is queried, a 24/7 provider can be the difference between a short delay and a rejected load.

Biosecurity compliance isn't complicated, but it is unforgiving — small oversights create big costs. TFS Fumigation works with exporters, importers and transport operators to get treatments and certification right the first time, across every state and territory, around the clock. If you want a second set of eyes on an upcoming shipment, our team is here to help.