US East Coast Snowstorm Shuts Ports: How to Keep Sea Freight Moving with Compliant Clearance

A forecasted snowstorm on 25–26 January 2026 has forced the closure of Maher Terminals and APM Terminals Elizabeth, disrupting sea freight operations. The article outlines practical steps for shippers to maintain compliant customs clearance and choose reliable forwarders during winter disruptions.H1. Port Closures Announced – Snowstorm Impact

On 23 January 2026, Maher Terminals and APM Terminals Elizabeth confirmed closure on Monday 26 January due to an impending snowstorm. Truck gate activity will cease, and no vessel operations are scheduled, pushing cut-off times and customs lodgement deadlines.

H2. Why Winter Disruptions Matter for Sea Freight Customs Clearance

• Delayed vessel schedules shift ETA, requiring swift amendment of import entries.

• Truck gate closures prevent delivery of original Bills of Lading or delivery orders to customs.

• Bonded warehouse capacity tightens as cargo waits for gate re-opening.

H3. Compliant Customs Strategy During Port Shutdowns

1. Pre-lodge entries using ocean manifest data before vessel arrival.

2. Switch to bonded off-dock yards for temporary storage (avoids demurrage).

3. Split shipments across multiple East-Coast ports (NY/NJ, Baltimore, Savannah).

4. Use forwarder’s importer-of-record to keep entries active even if your truck is stuck.

5. Monitor CBSA/US CBP bulletins for extended deadlines during force-majeure events.

H4. Customer Success – Winter Split Shipment

A Shenzhen furniture exporter had 4×40’HC destined for Elizabeth. Sunny Worldwide Logistics:

• Diverted 2 containers to Baltimore (same sailing),

• Pre-cleared both batches,

• Arranged bonded storage in NJ for delayed units,

• Delivered all cargo within 3 days of gate re-opening – avoiding USD 4,200 in demurrage.

Sea-Freight Related FAQ – Winter & Customs

Q1. If my container is stuck in a closed port, do I still have to pay customs duties on the original ETA?
No. US CBP allows “force majeure” amendment of entry date; our brokers re-lodge with new ETA, no penalty.

Q2. Can I change the port of discharge after the vessel has sailed?
Yes, via “diversion” request to carrier + amendment of manifest; we handle both customs and carrier paperwork.

Q3. How do I know if my cargo qualifies for bonded storage during port closure?
Any non-prohibited general cargo qualifies; we book bonded space in advance and transfer containers under customs seal – no duty until you collect.

Q4. Does snow delay customs examination?
Yes, physical exams drop by ~40% during snow days; we switch to X-ray only lanes where possible to speed release.

Q5. What documents must I prepare before a snow event?
Commercial invoice, packing list, AWB/Bill of Lading, and (if regulated) MSDS/COO. We file a pre-arrival entry so cargo is cleared before gates reopen.