How Long Does It Take Customs to Inspect a Container

What factors influence the duration of customs container inspections?

The duration of customs container inspections is influenced by a multitude of factors, each playing a crucial role in determining how long a container will be held for examination. Understanding these factors is essential for importers, exporters, and logistics professionals to manage expectations and plan accordingly.

Container contents and documentation

The nature of the goods inside the container significantly impacts inspection time. Containers carrying complex or sensitive items often require more thorough examinations. For instance, electronics, pharmaceuticals, or hazardous materials may necessitate specialized inspections, prolonging the process. Accurate and complete documentation is crucial. Well-prepared paperwork can expedite the inspection, while discrepancies or missing documents can lead to extended delays.

Origin and destination of the shipment

Customs authorities often apply different levels of scrutiny based on the shipment’s origin and destination. Countries or regions associated with higher risks of smuggling, trade violations, or security concerns may trigger more intensive inspections. For example, shipments from certain high-risk countries might undergo additional security screenings, increasing the overall inspection time.

Importer’s compliance history

An importer’s track record with customs authorities can influence inspection duration. Those with a history of compliance and accurate declarations may benefit from expedited processes or reduced inspection frequencies. Conversely, importers with previous violations or inconsistencies in their records may face more rigorous and time-consuming inspections.

Current workload and staffing at the port

The volume of containers arriving at a port and the available customs personnel directly affect inspection times. During peak seasons or when there are staffing shortages, inspections may take longer due to backlogs. Ports with advanced technologies and efficient processes can generally handle inspections more quickly than those relying on manual methods.

Type of inspection required

Different types of inspections vary in duration. A simple document review might be completed in a matter of hours, while a comprehensive physical examination could take several days. The specific inspection method chosen by customs officials depends on various risk factors and can significantly impact the overall time frame.

Special requirements or regulations

Certain goods may be subject to additional regulations or require clearance from other government agencies. For instance, food products might need approval from health authorities, or technology items could require clearance from communications regulators. These extra steps can extend the inspection process considerably.

Weather conditions and unforeseen circumstances

External factors such as severe weather, equipment malfunctions, or labor disputes at ports can cause delays in customs inspections. While these are often unpredictable, they can have a substantial impact on inspection durations.

Customs modernization and technology adoption

Ports and customs facilities that have implemented advanced technologies like X-ray scanners, automated data processing systems, and risk assessment algorithms can often conduct inspections more efficiently. The level of technological advancement at a particular customs facility can significantly influence inspection times.

Understanding these factors allows stakeholders in the supply chain to better prepare for potential inspection scenarios. By addressing controllable elements such as documentation accuracy and compliance history, importers can potentially reduce inspection times. However, it’s important to note that some factors, like port workload or special regulations, may be beyond an individual importer’s control.

Customs authorities worldwide are continuously working to balance thorough inspections with efficient trade facilitation. As global trade volumes increase, the pressure to streamline inspection processes while maintaining security standards remains a key focus for customs agencies and port operators alike.

How long do different types of customs inspections typically take?

Customs inspections are a critical component of international trade, ensuring compliance with regulations, security standards, and trade agreements. The duration of these inspections can vary widely depending on the type of examination conducted. Understanding the typical timeframes for different inspection types can help importers and logistics professionals plan more effectively and set realistic expectations for their supply chain operations.

Document Review

Duration: 1-24 hours

Document reviews are the most basic form of customs inspection. Customs officers examine the paperwork associated with the shipment, including commercial invoices, packing lists, and certificates of origin. If all documents are in order and raise no red flags, this process can be completed relatively quickly, often within a few hours. However, if discrepancies are found or additional information is required, the review may extend to a full day or longer.

X-Ray or Non-Intrusive Inspection (NII)

Duration: 2-8 hours

X-ray inspections, also known as Non-Intrusive Inspections (NII), involve scanning the entire container using advanced imaging technology. This method allows customs officers to view the contents without physically opening the container. The actual scanning process is quick, often taking less than an hour. However, the total time, including queuing, positioning the container, and analyzing the results, typically ranges from 2 to 8 hours.

Tailgate Inspection

Duration: 4-12 hours

A tailgate inspection involves opening the container and examining a portion of the cargo, usually near the doors. Customs officers visually inspect the accessible goods and may take samples for further analysis. The duration of this inspection type can vary based on the complexity of the cargo and any issues discovered during the examination.

Intensive Physical Examination

Duration: 1-5 days

An intensive physical examination is the most thorough type of customs inspection. It involves unloading the entire container and examining all goods in detail. This process is labor-intensive and time-consuming. The duration can extend from one day to several days, depending on the nature of the goods, the size of the shipment, and any complications encountered during the inspection.

Special Commodity Inspections

Duration: Varies (typically 1-7 days)

Certain commodities require specialized inspections due to their nature or associated risks. Examples include:

• Food and agricultural products: 1-5 days (may include laboratory testing)
• Pharmaceuticals: 2-7 days (often requires additional agency approvals)
• Hazardous materials: 1-3 days (involves safety checks and documentation verification)
• High-value goods (e.g., artwork, antiques): 1-5 days (may require expert appraisal)

The duration of these inspections can vary significantly based on the specific requirements and any additional testing or verification needed.

Mobile Team Inspections

Duration: 2-6 hours

Mobile team inspections are conducted by specialized units that can perform quick, targeted examinations at various locations within a port or at inland facilities. These inspections are often focused on specific risk factors or intelligence-driven concerns. While the actual inspection may be brief, the total process, including team deployment and reporting, typically takes between 2 to 6 hours.

Radiation Detection

Duration: 1-4 hours

Radiation detection scans are routinely performed on containers to identify any potential radioactive materials. The scanning itself is quick, often taking just a few minutes. However, if any anomalies are detected, further investigation can extend the process to several hours.

To provide a clearer overview of these inspection types and their durations, here’s a comparative table:

Inspection Type	Typical Duration	Key Factors Influencing Duration
Document Review	1-24 hours	Completeness and accuracy of documentation
X-Ray/NII	2-8 hours	Queue time, complexity of cargo
Tailgate Inspection	4-12 hours	Accessibility of goods, sampling requirements
Intensive Physical Examination	1-5 days	Volume and nature of goods, staffing levels
Special Commodity Inspections	1-7 days	Specific regulatory requirements, testing needs
Mobile Team Inspections	2-6 hours	Scope of inspection, team availability
Radiation Detection	1-4 hours	Initial scan results, follow-up investigations if needed

It’s important to note that these durations are general estimates and can vary based on factors such as port efficiency, customs staffing levels, and the specific circumstances of each shipment. Additionally, combinations of these inspection types may be applied to a single container, potentially extending the overall inspection time.

Importers and logistics professionals should factor in these potential inspection durations when planning their supply chain timelines. Building in buffer time for possible inspections can help mitigate disruptions and ensure smoother operations. Moreover, maintaining clear communication channels with customs brokers and staying informed about any changes in inspection procedures or regulations can help in better preparing for and managing the customs inspection process.

What are the key steps in the customs inspection process?

The customs inspection process is a crucial component of international trade, designed to ensure compliance with import regulations, protect national security, and collect appropriate duties and taxes. Understanding the key steps involved can help importers and logistics professionals navigate this process more effectively. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the typical customs inspection procedure:

Pre-Arrival Information Submission

The process begins before the shipment reaches its destination. Importers or their agents must submit advance information about the incoming cargo. This typically includes:

• Manifest data
• Bill of lading
• Commercial invoice
• Packing list
• Certificates of origin

This information is used by customs authorities to conduct initial risk assessments and determine if an inspection is necessary.

Risk Assessment and Targeting

Upon receiving pre-arrival information, customs officials use sophisticated risk management systems to evaluate the shipment. Factors considered include:

• Nature of the goods
• Origin and routing of the shipment
• Importer’s compliance history
• Current intelligence and alerts

Based on this assessment, shipments are typically categorized into different risk levels, which determine the likelihood and intensity of inspection.

Arrival and Initial Processing

When the shipment arrives at the port of entry:

• The carrier notifies customs of the arrival
• Customs officials verify the actual arrival against pre-arrival information
• The shipment is assigned a unique identifier for tracking through the inspection process

Document Verification

Customs officers conduct a thorough review of all submitted documents. They check for:

• Completeness and accuracy of information
• Consistency across different documents
• Compliance with import regulations
• Proper classification and valuation of goods

Any discrepancies or missing information at this stage can trigger further inspection or requests for additional documentation.

Determination of Inspection Level

Based on the risk assessment and document verification, customs officials decide on the appropriate level of inspection. This could range from a simple document review to a full physical examination of the cargo.

Physical Inspection (if required)

If a physical inspection is deemed necessary, it may involve:

• Non-intrusive inspection (NII) using X-ray or gamma-ray technology
• Tailgate inspection (examining goods near the container doors)
• Intensive examination (unloading and inspecting all contents)
• Sampling for laboratory analysis (common for food, agricultural products, or chemicals)

During this step, customs officers verify that the actual goods match the declaration and comply with all relevant regulations.

Specialist Referrals (if applicable)

Certain goods may require inspection or clearance from other government agencies. For example:

• Food products might need approval from health authorities
• Wildlife or plant products could require clearance from environmental agencies
• Pharmaceuticals often need verification from drug regulatory bodies

These additional checks can significantly extend the inspection process.

Resolution of Issues

If any discrepancies or violations are discovered during the inspection:

• Customs officials notify the importer or their agent
• The importer may be required to provide additional documentation or explanations
• In some cases, fines or penalties may be imposed
• Serious violations could result in seizure of goods or legal action

Calculation and Payment of Duties and Taxes

Once the inspection is complete and any issues are resolved:

• Customs officials calculate applicable duties and taxes
• The importer or their agent arranges for payment
• Proof of payment is submitted to customs

Release of Goods

After all requirements are met and payments are made:

• Customs issues a release order
• The importer or their agent can then arrange for the collection and onward transportation of the goods

Post-Clearance Audit

Even after goods are released, customs authorities may conduct post-clearance audits. These reviews ensure ongoing compliance and can occur months or even years after the initial import.

To illustrate the flow and typical timeframes of these steps, here’s a simplified table representation:

Step	Typical Duration	Key Dependencies
Pre-Arrival Information Submission	1-3 days before arrival	Completeness of information
Risk Assessment and Targeting	1-24 hours	Efficiency of customs systems
Arrival and Initial Processing	1-4 hours	Port congestion, time of arrival
Document Verification	2-24 hours	Complexity of shipment, accuracy of documents
Determination of Inspection Level	1-4 hours	Risk assessment results
Physical Inspection (if required)	2 hours – 5 days	Type and extent of inspection
Specialist Referrals (if applicable)	1-7 days	Availability of specialist agencies
Resolution of Issues	Varies (hours to weeks)	Nature and severity of issues
Calculation and Payment of Duties	1-24 hours	Complexity of tariff classification
Release of Goods	1-4 hours	Completion of all prior steps

It’s important to note that these timeframes can vary significantly based on factors such as the specific port of entry, the nature of the goods, the current workload of customs authorities, and any unforeseen complications that may arise during the process.

Understanding these steps allows importers and logistics professionals to better prepare for the customs inspection process. By ensuring accurate documentation, staying informed about current regulations, and maintaining open communication with customs authorities, businesses can often streamline their experience and minimize delays in the customs clearance process.

How can importers minimize customs inspection times and delays?

Minimizing customs inspection times and delays is a critical goal for importers seeking to maintain efficient supply chains and reduce costs associated with extended port stays. While some aspects of the customs process are beyond an importer’s control, there are several strategies that can be employed to streamline inspections and reduce the likelihood of delays. Here are key approaches importers can adopt:

Ensure accurate and complete documentation

The foundation of a smooth customs process lies in meticulous documentation. Importers should:

• Double-check all paperwork for accuracy and completeness
• Ensure consistency across all documents (invoices, packing lists, bills of lading)
• Provide detailed product descriptions and accurate HS codes
• Include all required certificates (e.g., origin, phytosanitary, fumigation)

Accurate documentation reduces the likelihood of queries from customs officials, which can lead to time-consuming clarifications or additional inspections.

Implement a robust compliance program

Developing and maintaining a strong compliance program can significantly reduce inspection frequency and duration. This involves:

• Staying up-to-date with customs regulations and trade agreements
• Conducting regular internal audits of import processes
• Training staff on compliance procedures and best practices
• Maintaining detailed records of all import transactions

Importers with a track record of compliance often benefit from reduced scrutiny and expedited processing.

Utilize trusted trader programs

Many countries offer trusted trader programs, such as the Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT) in the United States or the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program in the European Union. Benefits of these programs include:

• Reduced inspection rates
• Priority processing when inspections do occur
• Dedicated lanes or processing facilities at ports of entry

Participation in these programs requires a significant investment in security and compliance measures but can lead to substantial time savings in the long run.

Leverage technology and data management

Adopting advanced technology solutions can streamline the customs process:

• Use electronic data interchange (EDI) for submitting customs declarations
• Implement supply chain visibility platforms to track shipments and documentation
• Utilize customs management software to automate compliance checks and documentation preparation

These technologies can reduce errors, improve communication with customs authorities, and provide real-time visibility into the status of shipments.

Pre-clear shipments whenever possible

Many customs authorities offer pre-clearance options, allowing importers to submit documentation and receive clearance before the shipment arrives. This can significantly reduce processing times at the port of entry. To take advantage of pre-clearance:

• Submit all required documents as early as possible
• Respond promptly to any queries from customs officials
• Ensure all duties and taxes are paid in advance

Pre-clearance can often result in shipments being released immediately upon arrival, bypassing potential port congestion.

Build strong relationships with customs brokers and freight forwarders

Experienced customs brokers and freight forwarders can be invaluable partners in minimizing inspection times:

• They have in-depth knowledge of local customs procedures
• Can anticipate potential issues and address them proactively
• Often have established relationships with customs officials
• Can provide guidance on optimizing shipment timing and routing

Choosing reputable partners with a track record of efficient customs clearance can lead to smoother operations and fewer delays.

Optimize shipment timing and routing

Strategic planning of shipments can help avoid peak congestion periods:

• Research typical processing times at different ports of entry
• Consider alternative routing options that may offer faster processing
• Time shipments to arrive during less busy periods, if possible
• Be aware of local holidays or events that might impact customs operations

While not always feasible, adjusting shipment timing and routing can sometimes lead to significant time savings.

Conduct regular supplier audits

Ensuring that suppliers adhere to agreed-upon standards can prevent issues at customs:

• Verify that suppliers## What are the cost implications of customs container inspections?

Customs container inspections, while necessary for ensuring compliance and security, can have significant cost implications for importers. These costs can arise from various aspects of the inspection process and can have a substantial impact on overall supply chain expenses. Understanding these cost factors is crucial for importers to effectively manage their budgets and plan for potential inspection-related expenses.

Direct costs

Direct costs associated with customs inspections include:

• Inspection fees charged by customs authorities
• Demurrage and detention fees for containers held at ports beyond free time
• Storage fees for goods held in customs warehouses during extended inspections
• Costs of labor and equipment required for unloading and reloading containers during intensive physical examinations

These direct costs can vary depending on the port, the type of inspection, and the duration of the process. Importers should be aware of the specific fees charged by customs authorities at each port of entry and factor these into their cost calculations.

Indirect costs

Indirect costs resulting from customs inspections can be more difficult to quantify but can have a significant impact on overall supply chain expenses. These include:

• Delays in product delivery leading to lost sales or penalties from customers
• Increased inventory carrying costs due to extended transit times
• Disruptions to production schedules if critical raw materials or components are delayed
• Reputational damage and loss of customer trust due to unreliable deliveries

Importers should carefully assess the potential impact of customs delays on their specific business model and supply chain operations to estimate these indirect costs accurately.

Mitigation strategies

To minimize the cost implications of customs inspections, importers can employ various strategies:

• Negotiate with customs authorities for reduced inspection fees or expedited processing for high-volume importers
• Utilize trusted trader programs like C-TPAT or AEO to reduce inspection frequency and benefit from reduced fees
• Maintain strong relationships with customs brokers and freight forwarders who can provide guidance on optimizing costs
• Implement advanced technologies like supply chain visibility platforms to proactively manage delays and minimize demurrage and detention fees
• Diversify sourcing and maintain safety stock to mitigate the impact of potential customs delays on production and sales

By proactively addressing potential cost factors and employing cost-saving strategies, importers can effectively manage the financial implications of customs container inspections and maintain a competitive edge in their respective markets.

What should importers do if their container is selected for inspection?

If a container is selected for customs inspection, importers should take prompt action to ensure the process is completed efficiently and with minimal disruption to their supply chain. Here are the key steps importers should follow when their shipment is targeted for inspection:

Communicate with customs authorities

Upon receiving notification that a container has been selected for inspection, importers should:

• Acknowledge receipt of the notification and confirm understanding of the process
• Provide any additional information or documentation requested by customs officials in a timely manner
• Maintain open lines of communication throughout the inspection process to address any queries or concerns promptly

Clear and proactive communication can help expedite the inspection process and minimize delays.

Coordinate with customs brokers and freight forwarders

Importers should work closely with their customs brokers and freight forwarders to:

• Ensure all necessary documentation is prepared and submitted
• Arrange for the physical inspection process, including unloading and reloading of the container if required
• Facilitate communication between the importer and customs authorities
• Monitor the progress of the inspection and provide regular updates

Experienced customs brokers and freight forwarders can provide valuable guidance and support throughout the inspection process.

Prepare for potential issues

Importers should anticipate potential issues that may arise during the inspection process and have contingency plans in place. This includes:

• Identifying alternative suppliers or production sources in case critical materials are delayed
• Allocating additional budget to cover potential demurrage, detention, and storage fees
• Communicating with customers about potential delivery delays and managing their expectations

By proactively addressing potential issues, importers can minimize the impact of customs inspections on their overall supply chain operations.

Follow up on inspection results

Once the inspection is complete, importers should:

• Review the inspection report to ensure no discrepancies or issues were identified
• If issues were found, work with customs authorities and their customs broker to resolve them promptly
• Confirm that the container has been released and make arrangements for its onward transportation

Importers should also maintain detailed records of the inspection process and any associated costs for future reference and potential disputes.

Learn from the experience

Importers should use the experience of having a container selected for inspection as an opportunity to review and improve their import processes. This includes:

• Identifying areas where documentation or compliance procedures can be strengthened
• Evaluating the effectiveness of their communication and coordination with customs authorities, brokers, and freight forwarders
• Assessing the impact of the inspection on their overall supply chain and identifying ways to mitigate future disruptions

By continuously learning and improving, importers can enhance their resilience and adaptability in the face of customs inspections and other supply chain challenges.

How do customs inspections impact the overall supply chain?

Customs inspections can have far-reaching consequences on the overall supply chain, affecting various stakeholders and processes. Understanding these impacts is crucial for importers, exporters, and logistics professionals to develop effective strategies for managing customs-related risks and minimizing disruptions to their supply chain operations.

Delays and disruptions

One of the most significant impacts of customs inspections is the potential for delays and disruptions in the supply chain. Containers selected for inspection may be held at ports for extended periods, leading to:

• Missed delivery deadlines for customers
• Production delays due to the lack of critical materials or components
• Increased inventory carrying costs as goods remain in transit
• Reputational damage and loss of customer trust

These delays can have a ripple effect throughout the supply chain, causing disruptions at multiple stages.

Financial implications

Customs inspections can result in substantial financial costs for importers and other supply chain stakeholders. These costs include:

• Inspection fees charged by customs authorities
• Demurrage and detention fees for containers held at ports beyond free time
• Storage fees for goods held in customs warehouses during extended inspections
• Lost sales and penalties from customers due to delayed deliveries

These financial burdens can put significant strain on supply chain budgets and profitability.

Compliance and regulatory challenges

Customs inspections are designed to ensure compliance with import regulations, trade agreements, and security standards. However, the complexity of these requirements can pose challenges for supply chain stakeholders. Non-compliance can lead to:

• Seizure of goods by customs authorities
• Fines and penalties for importers and exporters
• Reputational damage and increased scrutiny from regulatory bodies

Maintaining compliance requires ongoing investment in training, technology, and internal processes.

Inventory management complexities

Customs inspections can introduce uncertainty and variability into supply chain planning and inventory management. Importers may need to:

• Maintain higher safety stock levels to mitigate the risk of delays
• Adjust production schedules and sales forecasts based on potential inspection-related disruptions
• Develop alternative sourcing strategies to reduce reliance on high-risk supply routes

Effective inventory management in the face of customs inspections requires advanced planning and flexibility.

Relationship management challenges

Customs inspections can strain relationships between various supply chain stakeholders, including:

• Importers and customers, due to delayed deliveries
• Importers and suppliers, due to production disruptions
• Importers and customs authorities, due to disputes over inspection results or fees
• Importers and logistics providers, due to increased costs and complexities

Maintaining strong relationships and open communication channels is essential for navigating these challenges effectively.

Opportunities for innovation and improvement

While customs inspections present significant challenges, they also create opportunities for innovation and improvement within the supply chain. Stakeholders can:

• Invest in advanced technologies like supply chain visibility platforms and data analytics to proactively manage inspection-related risks
• Collaborate with customs authorities and logistics providers to develop more efficient inspection processes and procedures
• Explore alternative sourcing and routing options to reduce reliance on high-risk supply routes
• Implement robust compliance programs and trusted trader initiatives to minimize inspection frequency and expedite clearance

By embracing these opportunities, supply chain stakeholders can enhance their resilience, adaptability, and competitiveness in the face of customs-related challenges.

What technologies are currently used in customs inspection procedures?

Customs authorities worldwide are increasingly adopting advanced technologies to streamline inspection processes, enhance security, and facilitate trade. These technologies play a crucial role in reducing delays, improving accuracy, and optimizing resource allocation. Here are some of the key technologies currently used in customs inspection procedures:

Non-Intrusive Inspection (NII) Systems

Non-Intrusive Inspection (NII) systems, such as X-ray and gamma-ray scanners, allow customs officials to examine the contents of containers without physically opening them. These systems provide high-resolution images that can detect anomalies, contraband, or hidden compartments. NII systems are widely used at ports and border crossings to screen cargo efficiently and minimize the need for intensive physical examinations.

Radiation Detection Equipment

Customs authorities employ radiation detection equipment to identify potential radioactive materials in cargo shipments. These systems include handheld devices, portal monitors, and mobile detection units. They use advanced sensors to quickly scan containers and alert officials to the presence of radioactive substances, enabling targeted inspections and enhancing overall security.

Automated Targeting Systems (ATS)

Automated Targeting Systems (ATS) are sophisticated risk assessment tools that analyze shipment data to identify high-risk cargo. These systems use complex algorithms and machine learning techniques to process vast amounts of information, including manifest data, intelligence reports, and historical trends. ATS helps customs authorities prioritize inspections, allocate resources efficiently, and facilitate the clearance of low-risk shipments.

Electronic Data Interchange (EDI)

Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) enables the secure exchange of shipment data between importers, exporters, carriers, and customs authorities. By submitting information electronically, stakeholders can reduce paperwork, minimize errors, and expedite the customs clearance process. EDI also facilitates the pre-arrival submission of documents, allowing customs officials to conduct risk assessments and inspections before the shipment reaches its destination.

Blockchain Technology

Blockchain technology is emerging as a tool for enhancing supply chain transparency and traceability. In the context of customs inspections, blockchain can provide a secure, decentralized platform for sharing shipment data and documentation among multiple stakeholders. This transparency can help customs authorities verify the authenticity of goods, detect anomalies, and streamline the inspection process.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning algorithms are being increasingly applied to customs inspection procedures. These technologies can help customs authorities analyze large datasets, identify patterns, and make more informed decisions. For example, AI-powered image recognition systems can assist in the analysis of X-ray scans, while machine learning algorithms can enhance risk assessment by identifying previously undetected threats or trends.

Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR)

Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) technologies are being explored for use in customs inspections. AR can provide customs officials with real-time, interactive overlays of information during physical examinations, such as product details, compliance requirements, or potential hidden compartments. VR can be used for training purposes, allowing customs officers to practice inspection techniques in a simulated environment before applying them in the field.

Internet of Things (IoT) and Sensor Technology

The Internet of Things (IoT) and advanced sensor technology are enabling more efficient and secure cargo tracking. Smart containers equipped with GPS trackers, tamper-evident seals, and environmental sensors can provide customs authorities with real-time data on the location, integrity, and condition of shipments. This information can help customs officials make more informed decisions about which containers require inspection and can also serve as evidence in case of disputes or investigations.

As customs authorities continue to invest in these technologies, we can expect to see further advancements in inspection efficiency, security, and trade facilitation. However, it’s important to note that the adoption and implementation of these technologies may vary across different countries and ports, depending on factors such as infrastructure, budget, and regulatory frameworks.