Maritime Pre-load Cargo Information

ByUAE MPCI

Overview
Shipping Lines, freight forwarders, and NVOCCs moving cargo into or through the UAE must submit shipment details to the National Advance Information Center (NAIC). This requirement applies only to containerized cargo, including imports, transshipments, and Freight Remaining on Board (FROB).

Filing Options
NAIC collaborates with accredited integration service providers to manage the submission process. The filing options are:

  • Freight Forwarders and NVOCCs: Must submit shipment details via accredited service providers.
  • Shipping Lines: Have the option to:
    • File through accredited service providers, or
    • Integrate directly with the NAIC system.

A complete list of accredited providers is available [here].

Scope of Filing
The following must be filed:

  • Shipping Lines: Required to submit either the Direct Bill of Lading (for non-consolidated cargo) or the Master Bill of Lading (for consolidated cargo).
  • Freight Forwarders/NVOCCs: Must file the House Bills of Lading for consolidated cargo.

Exemptions from Filing
The following are not subject to filing:

  • Export shipments leaving the UAE
  • Non-containerized maritime cargo (e.g., breakbulk, liquid bulk, Ro-Ro)
  • Wooden vessels (exempt under the current MPCI phase)
  • Empty containers
  • Crew’s personal belongings

Filing Format
All Bills of Lading (BOLs) must be filed in the EDIFACT CUSCAR format. Accredited service providers manage the technical submission process.

Information Required:
Includes details from the Bill of Lading, along with:

  • BOL number
  • Date and place of issue
  • Port details (loading, discharge, transshipment, receipt, delivery)
  • Container and seal information
  • Cargo description and HS codes
  • Shipper, consignee, notify party, freight forwarders, and agents
  • Vessel and voyage details (required for shipping lines)
  • Identifiers:
    • Shipping Lines and Freight Forwarders must include their MPCI Party ID
    • Freight Forwarders must also include the master co-loader or shipping line’s ID
    • Shipping Lines or master co-loaders must provide IDs for any consolidating freight forwarders
  • Additional standard BOL data

NAIC Response Status
Once submitted, NAIC will issue one of the following status responses:

  • ACT (Accepted): Approved for loading
  • DNL (Do Not Load): Loading denied
  • RFI (Request for Information): More details are required

Further status definitions are outlined in the MPCI Business Specifications document.

MPCI Party ID
This is a unique code provided by NAIC to every registered Shipping Line and freight forwarder.

  • Shipping Lines: A full list of their MPCI Party IDs will be released before the program starts.
  • Freight Forwarders: Must share their MPCI Party ID with Shipping Lines or overseas partners when needed for filing.

Filing Delegation

  • Shipping Lines: May assign filing tasks to their shipping agents. Agents must use the Shipping Line’s MPCI code during submission. The Shipping Line retains responsibility.
  • Local Freight Forwarders/NVOCCs: May assign filing to overseas partners, who must use the local forwarder’s MPCI code. The local forwarder remains liable.

More Information
For detailed instructions, see the FAQs or consult the MPCI Implementation Guide.