ACT coordinates with local inspection authorities to minimize the impact of extreme weather conditions on container inspection and movement

Aqaba Container Terminal (ACT) has announced that, due to the extreme weather conditions brought on by the recent snowstorm, road transportation between Aqaba and Amman has been severely restricted during the first five days of the storm, resulting in a backlog of containers awaiting collection at the terminal’s yards.

“ACT has coordinated with local inspection authorities in order to maintain an adequate level of inspections," commented ACT’s Chief Commercial Officer, Vincent Flamant. “The extreme weather conditions in Amman have substantially reduced the truck flow through the terminal which has also caused wheeled (on-truck) container inspections to plummet to less than half their usual rates. These extenuating circumstances have resulted in a backlog of containers that will require several days to clear.”

ACT and the Customs Department have already held a number of meetings in order to clear the cargo backlog as soon as possible in order to minimize the impact on local sectors. 

Sari Al Jaradeen, Manager of the Aqaba Customs Department, explained that the department has extended its official working hours until sunset in order to leverage on favorable road conditions during the day. Working hours might be further extended on a daily basis until all containers have been processed. He also noted that ground and wheeled inspections will also take place on weekends for the coming two weeks. X-ray inspections will be utilized as frequently as possible — particularly for transit containers — in order to expedite the process. 

“The Aqaba Customs Department will continue to coordinate with ACT in order to guarantee the processing of the container backlog as efficiently as possible while securing the safety of all involved,” added Al Jaradeen.