Slightly overloading your container doesn’t seem like it’d matter that much right? Wrong! There are strict limitations to which importers must adhere that are dependent on the legally permitted weight on Australian roads enforced by the RTA. Failure to adhere to these restrictions may result in a minimum penalty of $10,000AUD.
So what happens if the container is already on the water and it’s overloaded? Is the penalty inevitable? In brief, no. There are ways to mend the situation without the penalty, however it is not a cheap exercise.
If an overloaded container arrives at the port, it will have to be unpacked and then repacked into two containers in order to adhere to the aforementioned road limitations. This would incur handling charges as well as double the delivery charges. Another option is for the stock to be transported on a heavy haulage truck, hence increasing the cost of the delivery.
Whilst there are ways to avoid the penalty, the most cost efficient would be to adhere to the weight restrictions. If you would like more information, please do not hesitate to contact us on 02 9653 9127 or email us at enquiry@hornetgroup.com.au.