To support the timely movement of your cargo and help prevent shipment delays, Maersk will be implementing a No Shipping Instruction, No Load Policy applicable to export shipments from New Zealand.
Late or incomplete submission of Shipping Instructions may delay the issuance of the Verify Copy (draft copy) of the Bill of Lading. This can result in cargo being rolled, held, returned or delayed at origin, destination or a transshipment location.
What does the policy mean?
Under the ‘No Shipping Instruction, No Load Policy’, we request exporters must:- Submit complete and accurate Shipping Instructions by the deadline shown on Maersk.com and the shipment documentation.
- Review the Verify Copy (draft) of the Bill of Lading as soon as it is issued.
- Request any required amendments promptly.
- Ensure the Verify Copy process is completed no later than 38 hours before the vessel’s estimated time of arrival at the applicable load port.
The Shipping Instruction and Verify Copy deadline for this policy is currently set at 38 hours before vessel ETA at the compliance/deep sea load (not the feeder port).
What happens if the requirement is not met?
If the Verify Copy process has not been completed by the required deadline, Maersk may be unable to confirm the shipment as ready for vessel planning and loading. The cargo will therefore not be eligible for inclusion in the final load list and may be allocated to the next available vessel.
For shipments containing split Transport Documents, all applicable Verify Copies must be completed. If one or more Verify Copies remain incomplete, the entire shipment may be affected.
Any resulting costs, including applicable storage, detention, demurrage, terminal handling, rehandling or other additional charges, may be applied in accordance with the applicable terms and conditions.
When will the policy take effect?
The ‘No Shipping Instruction, No Load Policy’ will soft launch on 2 November 2026.
A hard stop and full implementation will start as of 30 November 2026 and will apply to eligible shipments loaded on this date.
What do you need to do?
To minimise the risk of cargo being rolled or delayed, please:- Submit complete Shipping Instructions as early as possible.
- Check the Shipping Instruction deadline shown for each shipment on Maersk.com.
- Review the Verify Copy immediately after receiving it.
- Provide amendment instructions or approval without delay.
- Contact your local Maersk Customer Experience representative if assistance is required before the deadline.
By implementing this policy, we aim to improve documentation readiness, reduce avoidable shipment delays and support more reliable cargo connections. This policy also supports the international convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) by ensuring there is advanced notification of all cargo being loaded onboard at the planning and execution phase.
Keeping your supply chain moving with connectivity and ease remains our priority. Should you have any questions or require further assistance, please contact your local Maersk Customer Experience representative.