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Saudi Ports Authority (MAWANI)

No.: 1/38/28175

Dated: 26/10/1446H i.e (24/04/2025 G)

​Circular No. (6) for the year 2025

To

All Shipping Agents

Copy to:

* Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority

* Union of Saudi Chambers

* All Operating companies at the ports

Subject: Implementing the Use of Pallets in the Loading and Stowage of Containerized Cargo to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Ports.

With reference to the General Ports Authority Circular No. (31), for the year of 2021, and Circular No. (2) for the year 2022 regarding the implementation of the use of pallets in loading and stowage of containerized cargo to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia ports; And within the framework of joint co-operation between the General Ports Authority and the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority regarding the implementation of the use of pallets in the loading and stowage of containerized cargo to the Kingdom's ports (a flat wooden structure specifically used for loading cargo), the importance of using these pallets stems from their necessity in facilitating the handling and unloading of containers, which in turn contributes to reducing cargo release time. Furthermore, they reduce the risks to which cargo is exposed during the loading, handling, and unloading process, such as loss or damage, and other significant importance in maintaining the safety of port employees and workers. They also enhance the efficiency of cargo inspection and security audit procedures and other field operations conducted at ports.

Based on the above, the following has been decided:

First: Starting from June 1, 2025, the use of pallets for loading and stowing all containerize goods arriving at the Kingdom's ports will be implemented gradually over a period of one year, followed by mandatory implementation.

Second: The following goods are exempt from the mandatory use of pallets for containerized goods arriving at the Kingdom's ports:

* Dry or liquid bulk materials that are loaded directly onto their respective means of transport, such as wheat and other grains, cement, gypsum, and petroleum products.

* Raw materials arriving in jumbo bags weighing too much to be placed on pallets.

* Heavy machinery and equipment, production lines, electric generators, and machinery.

* Metal products arriving in large rolls, coils, or flats.

* Iron rods, large pipes, scaffolding, and the like.

* Raw marble, stone, alabaster, and granite blocks before manufacturing.

Third: Exemption requests for any goods that are difficult to load on pallets during shipment due to their special nature are considered for objective reasons. This request is based on an official request from the General Authority of Ports, including a detailed description of the type of goods to be exempted. This request is reviewed in coordination with the Zakat, Tax, and Customs Authority to make the appropriate decision.

Fourth: Failure to comply with the use of pallets for goods arriving via containers at the Kino's ports will result in penalties and fines being imposed in accordance with the applicable laws and regulations in the Kingdom.

The Archy by announcing this, will urge all shipping agents to inform all importers and shipping agents, and to inform their clients of the instructions for implementing the use of Pallets for stowage of all goods arriving via containers into the Kingdom's ports, and to and implement the instructions.

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