17
Nov
Notification to the Area Port of New Orleans trade community that the New Orleans tri-port Marine Division encompassing the Ports of New Orleans, Gramercy and Baton Rouge will be closed on Monday, December 25, 2023 (Christmas) and Monday, January 1, 2024 (New Year’s Day).
The closure includes all online Vessel Entrance and Clearance System [VECS] transactions and in-person appointments.
Vessel agents should be aware and manage vessel entrances and clearances accordingly.
As a reminder:
- Vessel Formal Entry:
Reference: (19 CFR §4.3(a) and 19 USC §1434(a)
Within 48 hours after the arrival at any port or place in the New Orleans Tri-Port, vessels are required to make formal entry at the New Orleans, Gramercy, or Baton Rouge Marine Divisions. The 48 hours do NOT include days when the Marine Division is closed.
- Vessel Departures from the Tri-Port:
Reference: (19 CFR §4.60d)
Vessels have 48 hours to depart the Tri-Port after clearance is granted at the New Orleans, Gramercy, or Baton Rouge Marine Divisions.
If a vessel departure is delayed beyond 48 hours after clearance, vessel agents should report the delay in departure to CBP via VECS or email.
Vessel agents should call the Operations Desk at (504) 670-2270 and ask for the Duty Chief for any emergent issues on December 25th or January 1st.
The Marine Division closure has no impact on vessel boardings, vessel arrival notifications to the Port Operations Desk, or vessel crewman inspections.
Any questions regarding this notice may be directed to Chief Denise Emmer at denise.emmer@cbp.dhs.gov.
