Hapag-Lloyd suspends scrap bookings to Thailand due to new THB 150,000 container deposit requirement effective November 16, 2026.
Hapag-Lloyd has suspended new bookings for metal scrap and rubber scrap shipments to Thailand. The suspension takes effect immediately and will remain in place until further notice. The carrier also announced that, starting November 16, 2026, the receiving terminal will require a security deposit for containers carrying certain types of scrap. The deposit will apply to every affected box before it can be discharged.
The carrier attributed the measures to recent developments and requirements related to importing and handling metal and rubber scrap in Thailand. The changes affect exporters, forwarders, and Thai consignees involved in the scrap trade, introducing new cost, cash flow, and scheduling considerations for cargo already in the pipeline.
The suspension applies to new bookings for the following commodity classifications under the Harmonized System (HS), the international coding framework customs authorities use to identify traded goods: HS 7204: Ferrous waste and scrap, including iron and steel scrap; HS 7404: Copper waste and scrap; HS 7602: Aluminum waste and scrap; HS 4004: Rubber waste, parings, and scrap.
Hapag-Lloyd has not announced an end date for the suspension. Shippers planning scrap cargo to Thailand should review upcoming commitments with this in mind.
From November 16, 2026, the terminal will require a security deposit of THB 150,000 per container for imports of mixed metal, aluminum scrap, steel scrap, and rubber scrap. The terminal will use the deposit to cover any storage costs incurred while the containers remain at the facility.
The key requirements are: Amount: THB 150,000 per container; Who pays: The consignee, directly to the terminal; Deadline: At least 12 hours before the vessel's arrival; Arrangements: Consignees should contact the terminal directly to arrange payment in advance. The deposit requirement will also remain in effect until further notice.
Missing the deadline has significant consequences. If the terminal does not receive the deposit in time, the affected containers will stay on board the vessel instead of being discharged.
The terminal and/or Hapag-Lloyd will charge the responsible parties for any additional shifting or operational costs resulting from late or missing payments, as applicable. For cargo owners, a missed payment window can therefore turn into both a delivery delay and an unplanned cost.
