News

IME Requests DHS to Delay Residue Importation Procedures

11/05/2013

IME joined with other concerned industry associations requesting DHS Acting Secretary Rand Beers to delay implementation of Custom and Border Protection (CBP) procedures to enter and manifest residual cargo found in containers, such as cargo tanks and rail tank cars, returning to the United States. Click here to read letter.  It is estimated that the procedures scheduled to go into effect on NOV 25, 2013 will cost millions of dollars.  Even under the best of circumstances, it is virtually impossible to remove all materials, especially viscous materials like blasting agents, without cleaning the container.  Container cleaning can cost over $1,000.  CBP has been unable to articulate any safety or security benefits commensurate to the costs of these requirements.  Furthermore, CBP's action would trigger additional reporting requirements by the Environmental Protection Agency and the Food and Drug Administration.  A delay would allow stakeholders to press for the enactment of bipartisan legislation HR 2806.  HR 2806 would render the CBP residue requirements moot.  IME is also supporting the introduction of a Senate companion bill.