Hapag-Lloyd suspends new bookings for select metal and rubber scrap categories to Thailand due to regulatory changes, effective immediately.
Hapag-Lloyd has announced the immediate suspension of new bookings for select categories of metal and rubber scrap destined for Thailand, effective from the date of the notice, with the resumption date to be advised. The adjustment is linked to recent regulatory developments in Thailand affecting both the acceptance of scrap cargo bookings and destination port operations.
According to the Hapag-Lloyd notice, the suspension applies to new bookings under four harmonised system codes: ferrous scrap (HS 7204), copper scrap (HS 7404), aluminium scrap (HS 7602), and rubber scrap (HS 4004). Previously transported as recyclable commodities, these categories are now subject to the suspension, requiring affected exporters to identify alternative booking arrangements or confirm substitute solutions directly with the carrier.
Hapag-Lloyd has further advised that, effective 16 November, relevant terminals in Thailand will impose a deposit of THB 150,000 per container on imports of mixed metals, aluminium scrap, steel scrap, and rubber scrap. The deposit is intended to cover potential storage costs incurred at the terminal and represents a proactive risk control measure against the detention of scrap cargo. Payment must be completed prior to the vessel's arrival at port.
Consignees are required to remit the deposit directly to the terminal no later than 12 hours before the vessel's scheduled arrival and are advised to contact the terminal in advance to arrange payment. Should the terminal not receive payment within the stipulated timeframe, the affected containers will remain on board and will not be discharged. Any shifting costs and additional charges arising from late or non-payment will be recovered from the responsible party by the terminal and/or Hapag-Lloyd. The deposit requirement therefore carries direct operational consequences, determining whether cargo is discharged on schedule.
The notice does not specify the names of applicable terminals; the precise scope and payment arrangements are to be confirmed with the carrier or the actual discharge terminal. No uniform handling procedure has been outlined for cargo with confirmed bookings or shipments currently in transit. Affected shippers and freight forwarders are advised to contact Hapag-Lloyd promptly to clarify subsequent arrangements.
