Hapag-Lloyd has updated its cargo filing requirements for shipments to and from India following the latest directives under the Sea Cargo Manifest and Transshipment Regulations (SCMTR). The carrier said Indian ports are now operating under the SCMTR framework on a pan-India basis.
The updated requirements cover Sea Arrival Manifest (SAM) filings for import cargo and Sea Departure Manifest (SDM) filings for exports. Hapag-Lloyd has asked customers, freight forwarders, consolidators, NVOCCs and other stakeholders to review their processes and ensure that required information is submitted accurately and within the prescribed timelines.
For export shipments, customers are required to provide complete and accurate Shipping Instructions, including correct Shipping Bill and Primary Cargo Identification Number (PCIN) details. Where applicable, Cargo Summary Notification (CSN) filings and updates must also be completed. Hapag-Lloyd stressed that information across Shipping Instructions, Shipping Bills, House Bills of Lading and SCMTR filings should be consistent.
Mandatory data includes details such as HSN codes, IEC/PAN numbers, complete addresses and contact information. NVOCCs, consolidators and other relevant parties must also complete applicable SCMTR registrations and bond requirements.
For import cargo, Hapag-Lloyd said the correct ISO container codes must be declared when filing the CSN. The carrier has specified 2200 for 20-foot general-purpose containers and 4200 for 40-foot general-purpose containers.
The carrier has also introduced specific timing requirements for SAM information. Complete shipment information should be available 96 hours before the vessel’s estimated time of arrival (ETA-96h). If the required information is not available by ETA-48h, Hapag-Lloyd said it will proceed with Remain on Board (ROB) filing in accordance with SCMTR requirements.
Hapag-Lloyd warned that incorrect or delayed information could lead to shipment-processing issues. For export cargo where required information is not submitted properly, customers may be responsible for filing the Export General Manifest (EGM) directly with Indian Customs.
The latest update reinforces the need for exporters, importers and logistics intermediaries to strengthen data accuracy and filing discipline as India’s SCMTR regime becomes fully integrated into cargo documentation and manifest processes.