The St Vincent and the Grenadines Port Authority (Port Authority) is expressing its commitment to providing, as far as possible, a conducive environment that would allow the delivery of cargo in a timely and efficient manner during the Christmas season.{{more}}

In a release, the Port Authority said to achieve these goals, they have worked along with the Customs and Excise Department and the various Shipping Agencies to put in place measures that would reduce the waiting time and congestion associated with cargo clearing process at this time of the year.

“We have so far increased the areas designated to the clearing of barrels. This year, the Transit Shed (our usual delivery site) and the Geest/ WIBDECO Shed have been designated as our two locations at Port Kingstown. In addition, some barrels would be delivered at our Campden Park Container Port (CPCP). Your shipping agent would advise you as to your barrel location.

The complete transactions involved in the clearing of cargo would be facilitated at any one location. For the convenience of our customers, signs would be mounted in strategic areas directing our customers through the procedures,” a release from the Port Authority said.

The port has prepared a checklist of procedures with step by step instructions for the clearing of cargo and copies would be made available to the public at Shipping Agencies and all Port’s point of transactions. Customers are, therefore, encouraged to read the checklist carefully before coming to collect their cargo and must remember to bring along all necessary documentation to include valid photo identification (ID).

The Port Authority has installed a customer service telephone line 4512191 to provide addition information. They have also indicated that they are prepared to extend their normal operating hours during this time. The extended hours would be announced. Customers are however, urged to clear their Christmas cargo as soon possible.

The Port Authority wishes all its customers a safe and happy holiday.