Related FAQs

If a container is stopped for MAFBNZ inspection at the wharf how long will this hold up the container?

If a container is identified as high risk MAFBNZ requires your agent to contact us immediately.

MAFBNZ will then undertake the inspection (generally an external inspection if it is being done on the wharf) as quickly as possible. In certain circumstances, the external inspections may be carried out at your transitional facility under MAFBNZ supervision. Internal inspections of high risk containers also need to be arranged by your agent. Instructions are outlined on the Biosecurity Authority Clearance Certificate, a copy should be forwarded to you by the agent.

While MAFBNZ will conduct inspections as soon as possible there are occasions when, because of other workloads, it might take us a few days to get to your container.

Can someone else unload the container for me if my facility is not approved?

Yes, you can arrange for another facility to unload the container for you. Alternatively, if your facility is approved but there is currently no Accredited Person on site, you may use another already registered Accredited Person who may work at another location.

How much does a MAFBNZ inspection of a non-complying (high risk) container cost?

If a container is considered high risk or is non-compliant any additional work undertaken by MAFBNZ will be charged for. MAFBNZ inspections on and off wharf are charged at a rate of $100.00 per hour (1/4 hour minimum) and we also charge for travel to the inspection site.

What certifications must the exporting country provide for sea containers?

All sea containers arriving in New Zealand must be accompanied by a Quarantine Declaration.

This must be filled in by the exporter before the container leaves the country of origin. If containers do not have a Quarantine Declaration they will be considered high risk and may be subject to delays and additional inspection and treatment costs.

What goods can be imported into New Zealand?

A wide range of goods can be imported into New Zealand. Certain goods will have to meet specific import conditions before clearance.

To check if you can import a particular item you will need to refer to the relevant Import Health Standard.

How much does it cost to become an Accredited Person to inspect sea containers?
What records must we keep at our Transitional Facilities?

The approved operator must be able to retrieve, at the request of a MAFBNZ Inspector, records (for 7 years) covering:

  • All imported sea containers brought into the facility, including all of the following information where relevant to the particular containers or goods received:
    • date of arrival at the facility
    • container number
    • ship & voyage number
    • product and quantity unpacked
    • country of export
    • date of container devanning
    • confirmation that internal and external checks were conducted
    • name of the accredited person(s) who undertook the above checks
    • record of contaminants found and whether MAFBNZ was notified
    • any remedial action taken
  • Operational procedures to ensure the requirements of all relevant MAFBNZ standards are followed.
  • A copy of the transitional facility approval certificate.
  • A copy of the operator's approval certificate.
  • A list of accredited persons available to conduct container checks.
  • A copy of the current standard (Requirements of Transitional Facilities for Sea Containers Standard).
  • A copy of the current Import Health Standard for Sea Containers From all Countries.
How do we become a MAFBNZ approved transitional facility for sea containers?

To receive sea containers to your premises you must apply for your premises to become a MAFBNZ approved Transitional Facility for sea containers.

There is an Import Health Standard (IHS) for importing sea containers. This standard describes the conditions that need to be met by sea containers imported into New Zealand.

What do I do if I find something in or on a container?

If you find something in or on a container (including cargo or wood packaging) immediately call 0800 80 99 66; be sure to note this on your log sheet.

What do I have to do if I want to change the transitional facility that my container is going to?

You must complete and fax to MAFBNZ a Notice of Change to Destination Transitional Facility for Sea Containers Link to Word document (81 KB) form. For more information see Mandatory Declaration of the ATF Code and the ESCRIP Process Link to PDF document (42 KB).

I've done my Accredited Person training but haven't received my number and certificate. Can I start doing the container checks?

If the BACC Authority/Custom Delivery Order for your container is "To be opened by a Nominated Accredited Person" you may open your container. You will need to wait to submit your log sheet electronically or by fax until your number comes through.

If you have not received your number or certificate six weeks after sitting your course, please contact your Training Provider or MAFBNZ (Nicola Olson) on 07 927 5712.

I've received a container without a BACC Authority or Custom Delivery Order, can I open it?

No, containers should not be opened without confirmation the container has been cleared by MAFBNZ.

You should have received a Customs Delivery Order (CDO) and/or Biosecurity Authority Clearance Certificate (BACC) from your broker/agent. You will need to refer to the CDO under the "Delivery Instructions" that "MAF clearance has been given to move from wharf to ATF (approved transitional facility)". If any other MAF message appears in this section (e.g. "MAF HOLD"), then you will need to refer to the BACC for further instructions.