In response to an advisory issued by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry’s Logistic Division on 27th November 2024, the All India Container Transport Associations and the Nhava Sheva Depot Container Association have jointly finalized a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for handling charges at Empty Container Depots (ECD). This SOP will come into effect on 23rd December 2024.
Key Highlights of the SOP:
- Online Payments Only: All ECD operators will accept handling charges exclusively through online payment methods.
- Streamlined Invoicing: Tax invoices for handling charges will only be issued to the party named on the Shipping Line’s Delivery Order (DO) or Empty Offloading Letter. Transporters are not permitted to make any payments directly or indirectly.
- Direct Payments to ECD Operators: Shipping Lines must include the bank details of ECD operators on their Delivery Orders, enabling direct payments to avoid delays.
- Standardized Processes for Offloading: ECD operators will survey and handle containers based on Shipping Line SOPs and valid offloading/loading letters.
- Future UPI Implementation: Plans are in place to introduce UPI payment options for smoother transactions.
Advisory for Stakeholders: Consignees, Shippers, Freight Forwarders, and CHA Associations are urged to comply with the new SOP and make necessary arrangements to ensure seamless operations.
This initiative aims to enhance transparency, improve efficiency, and address GST compliance issues for all parties involved in container handling at Nhava Sheva.