DHS: Cargo not deemed COVID-19 threat

On the maritime side, DHS said vessels, crewmembers or passengers recently in affected areas “will have their arrivals fully vetted to safeguard the American public yet facilitate trade. This safety protocol is not anticipated to slow down the movement of cargo.”

The U.S. Coast Guard, which is part of DHS, has had a policy in place since January that requires commercial ship crews that have been in China within the previous two weeks, or who embarked on a vessel that has been to China during the same period, to remain on board the vessel while calling at U.S. ports. That policy was revised on March 9 to apply to Iran as well.

The latest restriction applies specifically to foreign nationals who have been in the 26 countries cited in the proclamation within the past 14 days. Those who are exempt from the restrictions, which include American and British citizens, “will be directed to a limited number of airports where screening can take place,” according to a fact sheet issued by the White House.

President Trump’s formal proclamation further notes that the ban will remain in effect until the president terminates it. “The Secretary of Health and Human Services shall recommend that the President continue, modify, or terminate this proclamation,” it states.

While the latest ban may not technically apply to air freight moving in dedicated cargo planes, the ban is likely to affect freight nonetheless. Flight reductions by the airlines have sidelined valuable space below deck that shippers rely on, placing a premium on all-cargo freighters and driving up rates. That trend will presumably continue given the number of flights in the popular U.S.-European market.