Maersk Introduces New Container Deposit Refund Process

Stories by FUNSO OLOJO

As part of efforts to boost service delivery to its numerous customers, Maersk Nigeria, has introduced new deposit refund process.
A statement issued by the company's Customs Services Team disclosed that the new method will engender a scenario where refund will only be paid by direct transfers to the bank accounts of depositors.
“As a direct response to your request for us to make our proposal easier, we are happy to inform you that there will be a change to our current deposit refund process.
“From 10 September 2008, container deposit refund payment will only be paid by direct transfers to bank accounts.  This means that we will not issue cheques for applications submitted after 10th September.
“The refund will be transferred directly to either the importer's bank account or your agency's bank account”.
The statement told the clients that the benefits of the new system include:
Direct payment makes it quicker to receive the refund.
*You don't have to wait on a queue to receive your cheque again because it will be directly transferred to a bank account
*We will send the applicant a text message as soon as we transfer the money and
*No need to write application letter again just fill the new refund form.
*Others include refund will be processed 5 days a week.  Payment transfers will also be 5 days a week.
*The counter spaces previously used for refund cheque payment will eventually be used for cargo release/invoicing.
*We will not change processing fee for direct bank transfers.
The statement noted that: “Agents that want to receive the refund directly into their account must have the
importer's approval.  The importer must write a letter authorizing your agency to receive the deposit.  The letter must be on the consignee's letter head stating your agency name and bank details.  You must attach this letter to the refund application form.
“The importer can also confirm his agreement by endorsing on the bill of laden that your agency is permitted to directly receive the payment.  This refund endorsement is separated from the regular endorsement on the Bill of Lading.  If we do not see the consignee endorsement/letter of authority, we will transfer to the consignee's account”.
The steps listed by the statement for agreements to undertake include:
*Get the consignees to endorse the original bill of laden authorizing us to pay you. This endorsement is different from the usual endorsement for release.
*Get your consignee to express his consent in a letter attached to the refund application.  The letter of authority should be on the consignee's official letter headed paper.  It should state the agent's name, the agent's bank and the account number.