A maritime waiver is an authorization or exemption document issued by the port, customs or governmental authority of the country of destination (sometimes also of the country of origin), which allows embarkation or disembarkation without the presentation of certain mandatory documents, or which exempts from certain temporary regulations.
Common maritime waiver cases:
1. ECTN / BESC / CTN Certificate Waiver
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Some African countries such as Angola, Nigeria, Senegal, Cameroon, Benin require a special cargo number or certificate to import.
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If it is not presented, a waiver may be requested from the destination government to allow boarding.
2. Flag Waiver
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When a foreign-flagged vessel needs to operate in the waters of a country with cabotage restrictions (such as the U.S. under the Jones Act), it can apply for a flag waiver to operate temporarily.
Customs waiver
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Allows exemption from restrictions or temporary taxes for certain goods, for example:
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Humanitarian aid
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Equipment for international events
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Diplomatic projects
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Who issues the waiver?
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Governments or customs authorities of the destination country (usually via their consulates, embassies or online platforms).
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It can be handled through freight forwarders or specialized freight forwarders.
Importance of the waiver:
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Avoid penalties or rejection of the goods at destination.
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It is mandatory in certain countries and not having it can generate:
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Retention of goods
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Fines
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Port delays
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Extra storage costs
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