GISTnet GISTnet Tips: 24 Feb 2005
GISTnet Tips: 24 Feb 2005

All:
The GISTnet Library "External Links" section contains numerous referrals
to other web sites we have found useful in meeting our informational
needs and those of our subscribers.  For example, have you ever been
baffled by weights and measures used in customs tariff or Schedule B
classifications, dangerous goods regulations, or export control
regulations?  You can use one of the on-line "conversion" sites under
"Standards and Conversion Factors"
(http://www.gistnet.com/library/2/ref/75.html) where you can quickly determine
that a packaged pressure of 280kPa (as stated in dangerous goods
regulations) equates to about 40psi, which is the threshold for
classification of an otherwise non-hazardous gas as dangerous goods for
shipment purposes.

Air Forwarders and Customs Brokers:
As of the 2005 IATA Dangerous Regulations, IATA has dropped its long
standing prohibition against the preparation and signing of a Shipper's
Declaration for Dangerous Goods by a freight forwarder or agent.  Under
heading Preparation/Signing of Shipper's Declaration by a
Forwarder/Other Agent (http://www.gistnet.com/sub/text/2:4-12-288.html),
you can learn why it was made, its implications, and why most forwarders
continue a company policy against doing this.

NVOCCs:
The FMC now permits NVOs to enter into "NVOCC Service Arrangements,"
also referred to as "NSAs," which are the NVO equivalent of VOCC Service
Contracts.  Learn about tariffs vs. NSAs in the GISTnet Library
(http://www.gistnet.com/sub/text/56:k1617.html), including limitations
on their use, and why as of yet no NVO has actually filed one with the FMC.

Customs Brokers and Importers:
We continue to build our library of import information and we are very
interested in your comments regarding Basic Customs Clearance and
Operational Procedures.  Please see our explanatory text
(http://www.gistnet.com/sub/text/56:customs_brokerage_a-to-z.toc) and send
comments and recommendations to editor@gistnet.com.