May. 12 2025
In order to increase the efficiency and productivity of port operations in line with international standards, the Saudi Ports Authority has issued a Circular No: (31) of 2021 regulating cargo owners to stow goods imported in containers into Saudi Arabia with the use of pallets.
- Starting from June 1st, 2025, it shall be using orders in shipping and packing all import containers to the kingdom ports gradually for one year and following to be mandatory.
- The following goods will be excluded from applying using pallets:
• Bulk items are dry or liquid which are carried directly by special means such as wheat, and other grains, cement, gypsum and petroleum items
• Raw materials in jumbo bags with high weight which is difficult to put in orders
• Heavy equipment & machines and production lines, electric generators, mechanics
• Metal products which are coming in big reels or flats
• Iron fences and big pipes, scaffoldings etc.
• Marbel blocks, stones, alabasters, and raw granite before manufacturing.
3. The excluded orders will be considered for any cargo facing difficulties in loading due to their special nature according to an official request to MAWANI including an accurate description of the goods and the case will be checked with coordination of ZATCA to take a suitable decision.
4.In case of non-compliance to use the pallets for import shipment in containers to
the kingdom’s ports, are subject to penalties, and fines shall be imposed whereby the applicable regulations in the kingdom
The Authority is announcing and confirming to all shipping agents to inform Shipping Lines and importers to inform their customers with the instructions to use the pallets in shipping & packing all import containers to the kingdom
Should you have any questions, please feel free to contact our local customer service and sales representatives.
Thank you for your support and partnership with ESL.
Customer Service
Emirates Shipping Co Ltd.
As Agent for ESL Saudi Arabia.