Over the past few months, there has been a dramatic escalation in instances of missing containers, chassis and other equipment of shipping lines. In most of these cases, the afore-mentioned equipment has gone missing while in the control of consignees/ex-porters. These losses are proving costly to the shipping industry and the situation calls for urgent action.

The Shipping Association of Jamaica (SAJ) and the Port Trailer Haulage Association (PTHA) are, therefore, exhorting all agents, freight forwarders, hauliers, custom brokers, shippers and consignees to consider the following measures to protect equipment left in their control:

Ensure that properly-documented handover procedures are adhered to.

Provide adequate security to protect equipment.

Take steps to insure equipment against loss or damage.

Both the SAJ and the PTHA view the current situation with grave concern and are of the view that it is in the best interest of all parties that we take action immediately to stem its continuation. If we do not, it will lead to restrictions and increased costs.

Michael Bernard

President of the Shipping Association of Jamaica.

Andrew Henry

President of the Port Trailer Haulage Association Haulage Association.