Understanding the UAE’s Maritime Pre-Load Cargo Information (MPCI) Program
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is set to launch its Maritime Pre-Load Cargo Information (MPCI) program on July 31, 2025, under Federal Law #52 of 2022. This initiative aims to enhance border security and streamline trade by requiring the electronic submission of containerized cargo information at least 24 hours before loading at the last foreign port before entering the UAE.
Key Requirements and Filing Process
The MPCI program applies to all containerized maritime cargo destined for import, transshipment, transit, or Freight Remaining on Board (FROB) in the UAE. The filing responsibilities are as follows:
- Shipping Lines: Responsible for submitting the Carrier’s Bill of Lading (Master Bill of Lading) data.
- Freight Forwarders and Non-Vessel Operating Common Carriers (NVOCCs): Required to submit House Bill of Lading data.
Delegation of filing is permitted; however, the ultimate responsibility remains with the local freight forwarder and the shipping line.
Required Information for Filing
Filing entities must submit the following data electronically:
- Bill of Lading information (number, issue date, ports of loading and discharge)
- Container and seal identification numbers
- Detailed description of goods with corresponding Harmonized System (HS) codes
- Information about all involved parties (shipper, consignee, notify party, freight forwarders, and agents)
- Vessel and voyage details (mandatory for shipping lines)
- Identifiers: Shipping lines and freight forwarders must provide their own MPCI Party ID. Freight forwarders must also include identifiers for the master co-loader or shipping line.
Filing Status Responses
After submission, the National Advance Information Center (NAIC) will respond with one of the following status codes:
- ACT (Accepted): The cargo is cleared for loading.
- DNL (Do Not Load): The cargo is not approved for loading.
- RFI (Request for Information): Additional information is required before a decision can be made.
Registration Process
All entities (shipping lines, freight forwarders, NVOCCs, and shipping agents) must register with the NAIC before initiating filings. The registration process involves selecting the appropriate role(s), providing company details, and designating an MPCI contact. Upon approval, a confirmation email including the MPCI Party ID will be sent, enabling the company to begin filing.
Delegation Options
Freight forwarders can choose one of the following delegation options:
- Disabled: No other freight forwarder can file on their behalf.
- Enabled for All: Any freight forwarder with their MPCI code can file on their behalf.
- Enabled for Selected Freight Forwarders: Only selected freight forwarders can file on their behalf, provided they have registered and obtained an MPCI code.
Shipping agents must coordinate with the shipping line to begin filing and must register with the NAIC if delegated to file on behalf of the shipping line.
Implementation Timeline
- July 31, 2025: Official launch of the MPCI system.
- March 31, 2026: Grace period for the industry to meet the MPCI requirement.
During the grace period, no penalties or enforcement actions will be applied. All shipments filed will receive an “Assessment Complete” (AC) response, and there will be no RFI or DNL responses issued.
More Information
For detailed instructions, see the FAQs or consult the MPCI Implementation Guide.
Getting Started