Dec. 02 2025
We would like to remind all our customers that ESL will be implementing the new
regulatory framework introduced by the National Advance Information Centre (NAIC) in
the UAE. As part of this requirement, Advance Manifest Cargo information must be
submitted through the “Maritime Preload Cargo Information” (MPCI) portal.
This is an update on the upcoming changes in the process and cut-off timelines.
The scope of this change is relevant to:
- Imports shipments to UAE
- Transshipment shipments through UAE Ports
- Shipments transiting via UAE Ports (FROB)
Based on the new regulations, there are necessary changes to the “Shipping
instructions” submission process for cargo destined to or transshipping / transiting
through UAE and the responsibilities for shippers and forwarding agents.
- Cut off Timelines for Shipping Instruction Submission:
To comply with NAIC regulations, Shipping Instructions must be submitted 2 working
days prior to the Vessel arrival at the Port of Loading
- Applicability of “Direct or Master Bill of Lading” Declaration in Shipping
Instruction submission:
- Imports into UAE – Bills of Lading must be declared as either “Direct” or “Master
Bill of Lading.”
- Transshipment and In-Transit through UAE – All Bills of Lading for cargo
transshipping or transiting through UAE will be declared as “Direct Bill of
Lading” (as per NAIC’s instructions)
- Declaration of “Direct or Master Bill of Lading” for Shipping Instruction
submitted via ESEA:
- If HBL is not involved – In case you are a BCO customer, and no House Bill of
Lading (HBL) is involved, please update “Direct Bill of Lading” in the Additional
Information field in ESEA (under BL Preview Details)
We will declare the shipment to NAIC as “Direct Bill of Lading.”
- If HBL is involved – In case you are a NVOCC/ Forwarder and HBL is involved,
please update “Master Bill of Lading” and 7-digit Alpha numeric code, e.g.:
MPCI123 Maritime Preload Cargo Information (MPCI) code in the Additional
Information field in ESEA (under BL Preview Details).
We will declare the shipment to NAIC as “Master Bill of Lading.”
If you are submitting your SI through other platforms such as INTTRA, Cargo Wise
or EDI, please check with those service providers regarding where the above
mentioned information should be entered.
Please note, in absence of the required information, the Bill of Lading will be
declared as ‘Direct Bill of Lading’ to NAIC.
4.Mandatory Information for SI Submission:
To ensure compliance, the following data must be included in your Shipping
Instruction (in addition to standard Bill of Lading details):
- Ports (Loading, Discharge, Transshipment, Receipt, and Delivery)
- Container Details and Seal Numbers
- Cargo Details and HS Code
- Involved Parties (Shipper, Consignee, Notify Party, Freight Forwarders and
Agents) - Vessel C Voyage Information
- Identifiers:
- Shipping lines and freight forwarders must provide their own identifiers: MPCI
Party ID (Link to next section). - Additionally, freight forwarders must include identifiers for the master co-loader
or shipping line. - Shipping lines or master co-loaders must include identifiers for any
consolidating(child) freight forwarders in cases of consolidation. - Other Standard Information: Any additional standard information typically
included in the BOL.
For more details, please refer to the National Advance Information Centre link.
5.Forwarder’s responsibility:
- Forwarders are expected to complete a onetime registration with NAIC on their
website to procure the MPCI code. Forwarders should update this code in their
SI. - Accordingly, the Bill of Lading will be declared as “Master Bill of Lading” and the
MPCI code shared with NAIC during Advance cargo manifest filing. - Forwarders MUST submit the HBL filing with NAIC or through Accredited Service
Provider within the stipulated timeline. For more information on how to do this
please refer to the official NAIC website.
6.Soft Launch and Implementation Timeline
- Soft Launch: By 15 December 2025, customers are requested to submit
Shipping Instructions in line with the above-mentioned requirements
(information and timelines). During this period, ESL will assess compliance
across customer submissions.
- Go-Live: Effective 15 January 2025, ESL will commence “live” Advance Cargo
Information submission to NAIC.
During this phase, non-compliant containers will not be denied loading, rolled to
the next vessel, or retained on board (ROB). “No Doc, No Load” policy is
expected to be implemented by NAIC in the first quarter of 2026, and we will
keep you updated on the confirmed implementation date.
7.Consequences of Missing the SI Deadline (after the implementation date):
Failure to meet the required SI submission deadline may result in:
- Cargo being returned to POL (FROB), with all related logistical costs charged to
the customer. - Change of Destination (COD), with all related logistical costs charged to the
customer. - Penalties imposed by UAE Customs (NAIC)
Should you have any questions or require support regarding these new regulations,
please contact your local Customer Experience teams for more information.
Emirates Shipping Line Agencies