On September 6, 2017 U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) issued Cargo Systems Messaging Service (CSMS) 17-000540 providing guidance for importers processing cargo during Hurricane Irma at certain affected ports.

CBP has advised the following steps should be taken for importers whose freight could be affected by Hurricane Irma.

For Importers where vessels have been diverted:

• No changes or updates are required if the entry and summary had previously been filed at the original port
• If a certified summary has been filed, no changes or updates are required
• “The entry had already been filed at the original port (e.g. Miami or San Juan), but the summary had not been filed. In this case, it is recommended to file the summary using the same entry port as the entry was filed”
• File at the diverted port when neither the entry or summary has been filed at the original port
• For cargo offloaded in Mexico or Canada routed to the U.S. by truck or rail, border carrier must submit manifests in the appropriate systems. “Original entries destined for original U.S. ports will need to canceled and refiled for the new land border port or an in-bond move will need to be requested to move the cargo to the port of entry.”

The CSMS can be accessed at: