📜 Regulatory Framework

Implemented since January 4, 2010, this mandatory program covers all bulk and break‑bulk cargoes loaded into vessels bound for the Philippines.

It is governed by:

• Administrative Order No. 243‑A (2009) – Establishing inspection requirements
• Customs Administrative Order (CAO) 3‑2010 and CMO 18‑2010 (2010) – Detailing the inspection process
• CAO 60‑2011 (2011) – Addressing discharge‑port procedures

The program is administered under the authority of the Committee for Accreditation of Cargo Surveying Companies (CACSC) and supported by accredited third‑party inspection entities.

⚙️ Scope of Duties

Authorized inspection bodies accredited by the CACSC are responsible for verifying:

• ✅ Quantity and quality of goods
• ✅ Compliance with customs and international best practices
• ✅ Accuracy of documentation (invoices, packing lists, certificates)

Coverage:

• All bulk and break‑bulk shipments loaded into carrying vessels for the Philippines
• Cargo types include liquids, chemicals, petroleum products, agricultural commodities, wood, steel, coal, and grains

Exemptions:

• Containerized goods
• Airfreight cargoes
• PEZA‑registered enterprises

🧾 Key Definitions

Bulk Cargo: Unpackaged materials (dry or liquid) loaded directly into a vessel’s hold — such as oil, grain, or coal.

Break‑Bulk Cargo: Non‑containerized goods packaged individually (e.g., boxes, pallets, bales, steel coils, sacks of rice) and loaded unit by unit.

🚢 Inspection Process

Step 1: Issuance of Inspection Order

An importer or exporter requests a Port Load Survey Inspection Order (PLSIO) from the accredited inspection company.

This order authorizes the inspection to begin.

Step 2: Onsite Inspection at Port of Loading

• Exporters must notify the inspection body at least three days prior to the planned loading.
• Inspectors survey quantity, quality, and grade of cargo.
• Cargo holds are sealed when necessary before the vessel sails.

Step 3: Report and Clearance

• A Port Load Survey Report (PLSR) is generated and transmitted to the Bureau of Customs (BoC) in Manila prior to vessel arrival.
• The PLSR, printed on secure paper with a hologram, must be presented to Customs for release of the goods.

Step 4: Non‑Compliance Measures

If inspection is skipped or discrepancies exist:

• A Discharge Port Survey (DPS) will be imposed at the importer’s expense.
• A Discharge Port Survey Report (DPSR) will then be issued.
• Penalties may apply per CAO 6‑2011.

💰 Fees and Payments

Inspection fees are determined based on cargo type, country of export, and importer/explorer requirements.

• Fees are paid upon application of the PLSIO.
• Total fees cannot exceed 0.5 % of the FOB value of the cargo.
• Costs of presentation, sampling, or unpacking remain the responsibility of the seller or exporter.

🛡️ Benefits of Compliance

Complying with the Bulk & Break Bulk Cargo Program brings vital advantages:

• 🕒 Faster customs clearance — shipments inspected at origin are released immediately upon arrival.
• 🌍 Alignment with global trade standards — inspections follow WCO and ISO 17020 principles.
• 🧭 Transparency and confidence — ensures accuracy in cargo weight and quality.
• ⚖️ Reduced penalties and delays — avoids added surveys and fines.

🌐 Geographical Coverage

Inspection services are available worldwide, allowing exporters to meet Philippine requirements regardless of origin.

Accredited inspection companies maintain international networks to support global trade needs.

🤝 How ComplyMarket Can Help

Navigating customs regulations can be complex.

ComplyMarket supports exporters, importers, and logistics providers with:

• Expert guidance on Philippine customs and cargo inspection requirements
• Assistance in document preparation (PLSIO, invoices, certificates)
• Compliance tracking to ensure inspections and reports meet government deadlines
• Coordination with accredited inspection entities for a seamless process

Through ComplyMarket, businesses gain the confidence to trade efficiently, minimize administrative risks, and maintain full regulatory compliance.