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We would like to inform you of a requirement announced by the Directorate General of Customs, Royal Oman Police (the “Directorate”), regarding the mandatory use of pallets for incoming shipments to Oman.
The requirement is in line with Article 44 of the Unified Customs Law of the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf (the “GCC Customs Law”) and is intended to improve cargo handling, support smoother customs clearance, and enhance the flow of trade through Oman’s entry points.
A copy of the Directorate’s directive may be obtained from your local Maersk representative upon request.
The implementation will take effect in two phases:
- 15 July 2026: Shipments arriving through land ports
- 15 September 2026: Shipments arriving through air and seaports
Under this requirement, all applicable cargo must be placed on suitable pallets before arrival in Oman.
Accepted pallet types include:
- Wooden pallets (subject to ISPM-15 phytosanitary treatment and marking requirements)
- Plastic pallets
- Metal pallets
The requirement applies to goods that can be reasonably transported, loaded, and handled using pallets. Certain cargo categories that cannot practically be palletised may be exempt from the requirement, as determined by the Directorate. Examples of potentially exempt cargo include bulk cargo, heavy equipment, pipes, coils, liquids, stone blocks, marble, and similar cargo types. Customers should verify exemption eligibility directly with the Directorate or their customs broker, as Maersk is unable to confirm or guarantee the application of any exemption.
Customers are encouraged to review their cargo preparation and packaging arrangements ahead of the effective dates to ensure compliance and avoid potential disruption at destination. Shipments that do not meet the pallet-use requirement may be rejected and returned to origin by the relevant authorities.
Please note that all costs, charges, and expenses arising from non-compliance with the pallet-use requirement - including but not limited to return freight, storage, demurrage, detention, and any fines or penalties imposed by the authorities shall be for the Merchant’s account. Carriage of your shipments remains subject to the applicable bill of lading terms and conditions, including the Carrier’s Tariff.
This advisory is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or regulatory advice. Customers are responsible for ensuring that their shipments comply with all applicable laws, regulations, and requirements at origin, in transit, and at destination. Maersk assumes no liability for the accuracy or completeness of the regulatory information set out above.
For any questions or support with your shipment planning, please contact your local Maersk representative. We thank you for your continued trust and cooperation.