Code chaos

A shipper booked a shipment of 17 containers from Germany to China via Rotterdam, destination Jiangyin Terminal Fuzhou. The correct location code with the shipping line for this destination was CN JGY indicating the cargo was for Jiangyin International Container terminal, Fuzhou Fujian.

ITIC’s member was the liner agent and used the code CN JIA in error. That code was for the Port of Jiangyin, located 900 km away by road.

The problem was only identified after shipment. The containers were discharged at Shanghai and redirected to the correct destination.

The total claim for transhipment and delay amounted to US$ 70,000, which ITIC reimbursed.