Customs implements contactless clearance system after successful pilot
KINGSTON, Jamaica – The Jamaica Customs Agency (JCA) has announced that starting Monday, importers of Non-Commercial Less than Container Load (LCL) Cargo have the option of using contactless clearance when clearing their cargo at all sea ports and marine public bonded warehouses.
The contactless clearance pilot phase, which ran from October 2022 to January 2023, afforded non-commercial customers a more efficient, more hassle-free and less time-consuming avenue to clear their cargo while the JCA continues to fulfil its mandates of trade facilitation, border protection and revenue collection, the JCA said in a statement on Monday.
Having garnered feedback from freight forwarding agents and importers, Kingsley Henry, Project Manager for the Contactless Clearance Process, highlighted some plans to be executed as the process is implemented.
“The JCA continues to work to improve the confidence that our customers have in the integrity of the clearance process by introducing body-worn cameras to officers who will be inspecting cargo under the Contactless Clearance Process,” he said.
Henry further stated that payment options will be increased in the near future to facilitate the full implementation of the process for all non-commercial importers.
The benefits of the Contactless Clearance Process does not only impact the Agency and its end customers but also the freight forwarding agents, the JCA said.
Carlos Ibar of Dennis Shipping highlighted that during the pilot phase of the process he experienced “faster processing times” and appreciated the “less hands-on work for freight forwarders.”
He continued by adding that “the overall experience was pretty positive. With minor tweaks, it should be beneficial to all freight forwarders and customers alike.”
Additionally, the JCA is encouraging all non-commercial customers to take advantage of the Contactless Clearance Process and enjoy significantly less waiting, less hassle and less stress.
“As a reminder, a packing list with adequate details of the shipment should be shared with the respective agent for increased efficiency in completing an accurate customs declaration. For additional information, email Jamaica Customs Agency at: contactlessclearance@jca.gov.jm or call 876 922 5140-8,” the statement read.
