PierPass to have testing period for new export rules

PierPass to have testing period for new export rules    PierPASS on Tuesday announced that an open testing period will begin Monday for the new procedures for handling export containers under the OffPeak program at the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach.
   PierPASS, the administrative entity set up by terminal operators to collect fees on containers moved in or out of the ports during daytime weekday hours, is urging all exporters to begin using the modified system during the testing period to ensure they are ready for the change.
   Beginning Aug. 7, exporters delivering containers during peak hours will be required to claim their booking numbers before the containers arrive at the marine terminals. Under the revised procedure, exporters must claim their booking numbers by visiting the PierPASS website and entering the booking numbers into their accounts. Export containers subject to the PierPass fee that arrive at terminals during peak hours (Monday through Friday, 3 a.m. to 6 p.m.) without having been claimed in this manner will be turned around and encouraged to use the OffPeak hours of operation.
   TMF payments must be made electronically through the PierPASS Web site by registered OffPeak users. No OffPeak payments are accepted at the terminal gates and the cargo owner is responsible for payment of the fee, not the trucking company or other carrier.