Cargo Status is the product of a cumulative process within the Integrated Cargo System (ICS) that evaluates whether a consignment may be released from Department of Home Affairs and Department of Agriculture control.
Cargo Status is determined by a set of conditions related to the cargo and associated documents.
Cargo Status information is available via Customs Interactive and is also transmitted in electronic messages to relevant stakeholders.
Cargo Status is recalculated every time an event occurs that impacts on any of the conditions, including amendments to the Cargo Report and associated documents.
Finding Cargo Status in the ICS
Cargo Status is displayed on the Import Document Status Detail View screen or the Import Document Status Summary View screen. These hyperlinks are available from a number of screens depending on whether you reported the cargo or lodged an import declaration. All users can obtain access to the status screens through the:
- Air Cargo Manifest List screen;
- Sea Cargo Manifest List screen; or
- Vessel Summary List screen.
From the Import Document Status Summary View screen, click on the status condition (N or Y) next to Cargo Report Evaluated. This takes you to the Import Document Status Detail View screen.
The Department has produced three Quick Reference Guides and one comprehensive guide to assist users in understanding the status of their cargo within the ICS.
A comprehensive 18 page guide for beginners.
Urgent Cargo Clearance
To request an urgent cargo clearance, the cargo must meet one of the following criteria:
- Perishable goods will be damaged if subjected to delay, or
- Cargo requires immediate delivery (e.g. urgent medical supplies, hazardous materials and livestock); or
- Cargo may miss its carrier (export flights/vessels, truck booking system).