In March 2012, a change to Japan’s Customs Law stipulated the new Advance Filing Rules on Maritime Container Cargo Information.

Japan Customs Advance Filing Rules (AFR) require carriers and non-vessel operating common carriers (NVOCCs) to electronically submit filings for Japan-bound cargo to Japan customs no later than 24 hours before vessels depart from a port of loading in foreign countries;

Vessels that do not comply with the new requirements, or having provided inaccurate documents are subject to penalties by the Japan authorities. Vessel may not be allowed to release their shipment and Individuals can face up to a year’s imprisonment, or a fine not exceeding JPY 500,000.

Atlas Line is offering their agents full compliance with the advanced filing rules applied in Japan.