Direct Unloading: Streamlining the Customs Clearance Process

What is it and what is required?

It is the customs clearance of goods directly at the airline’s warehouse in the airport, without the need to move them to a bonded warehouse. This process must be completed within the next business day following the arrival of the goods in the National Customs Territory, based on the date and time recorded in the cargo manifest. It can also be used for maritime shipments to reduce costs and lead times in the logistics chain.

To carry out this process, the transport document (BL or Air Waybill) must be consigned as Direct Unloading, with all required permits (if applicable), and all original supporting documents must be available. This method is recommended for shipments that require urgent delivery and have relatively short purchase orders, since longer or more complex shipments may require more time for clearance.

What is Direct Unloading?

Air direct unloading refers to customs clearance of goods at the airline’s warehouse in the airport within 24 hours of the cargo’s arrival (based on the cargo manifest date and time).

This process is used in imports when the nature or characteristics of the goods require immediate and direct handling from the mode of transport to the final destination, without passing through intermediate storage areas or bonded warehouses. The main reasons for opting for direct unloading include:

1. Perishable goods:
   Products like fresh foods, fruits, vegetables, flowers, and medications have a limited shelf life and require immediate transport to avoid spoilage. With direct unloading, these products reach their final destination faster, preserving their quality and meeting sanitary standards.
2. Oversized or heavy cargo:
   Industrial equipment, heavy machinery, and other bulky goods require special handling to avoid damage during transport. Direct unloading allows them to be moved straight to the destination without extra handling, which can reduce costs and risks.
3. Hazardous materials:
   Flammable substances, chemicals, and other items classified as hazardous require strict handling and storage protocols. Direct unloading minimizes the risk of accidents and ensures compliance with specific safety regulations.
4. Reduction of logistics costs:
   By avoiding storage fees in bonded warehouses and additional cargo handling, direct unloading offers significant savings for importers. This is especially useful in large-scale operations where each additional day of storage can mean high costs.
5. Compliance with regulations and special norms:
   Certain goods—such as live animals, pharmaceuticals, and highly regulated items—must be transported directly from the airport to their final destination to meet sanitary, environmental, or security regulations established by customs authorities.

In summary, direct unloading is a strategy used when speed, safety, and efficiency are essential in the handling of imported goods.

Customs Clearance Process through Direct Unloading

To take advantage of the direct unloading modality for imports, the transport document must be specifically consigned under this method. In addition, the following requirements and conditions must be met:

✔ Consignment of the transport document:
The transport document must be explicitly consigned as direct unloading to allow customs clearance at the airline's warehouse.

✔ Applicable to urgent goods:
This process is intended for goods requiring rapid management, such as perishables, medicines, or hazardous goods.

✔ Limitations for large orders:
Direct unloading is not advisable for very large orders, as logistics and handling can become complex.

✔ Importance of pre-alerts and documentation:
The success of the operation depends on timely pre-alerts and the correct arrival of all necessary documents for customs clearance. Any delays may result in additional costs or delivery setbacks.

✔ Time regulations:
If customs clearance is not completed within the 24-hour period, the goods will automatically be transferred to an Authorized Warehouse, where the standard customs clearance process will continue.

Conclusion

Direct unloading is a key strategy in international trade to accelerate the customs clearance of goods, especially those requiring urgent or special handling. Besides reducing time and logistical costs, it ensures compliance with international regulations and guarantees the safe handling of cargo.

To ensure a successful operation, it is essential to work with experienced customs brokers who can assist with documentation, coordinate logistics, and ensure full regulatory compliance.