0
The U.S. Customs and Border Protection Area Port of St. Thomas announced earlier this week that two local companies have submitted applications to establish Centralized Examination Stations (CES) in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Caribbean Cargo Holdings, based in Christiansted, and St. Thomas Cargo, located in St. Thomas, have officially submitted applications to become CES operators, adhering to the guidelines stipulated under Title 19, Parts 118 of the U.S. Code of Federal Regulations.
A CES is a privately operated facility where CBP officers conduct physical examinations of imported merchandise. The creation of CES by the CBP aims to enhance productivity and service by consolidating resources and reducing the travel time required to conduct cargo examinations at multiple facilities within a Port of Entry.
When the CBP flags merchandise for inspection, the importer or the importer's agent is tasked with arranging a bonded transfer of the merchandise to the CES. The importer or agent is also responsible for covering the costs of the transfer and any fees incurred for the services provided by the CES facility.
Marcia Murrell, the assistant area port director, is inviting trade stakeholders, importers, vessel agents, carriers, brokers, and the general public to provide any information or feedback regarding the applicant companies. Feedback can be sent directly to her via email at [email protected].
Formal letters can also be directed to the attention of the Assistant Area Port Director and mailed to P.O. Box 7190, St. Thomas, VI 00802.
