Client Update: Extended Australian Border Force Holds

Clarke Global Logistics wishes to keep our clients updated of ongoing Australian Border Force (ABF) border holds that are currently affecting both sea freight and air freight shipments.

Industry body IFCBAA (International Forwarders & Customs Brokers Association of Australia) has reported that since December there has been a noticeable increase in both the number of shipments being held and the length of time those holds are lasting. While it acknowledges that ABF holds are part of normal operations, the current delays are longer and more widespread than usual, with some consignments being held for several weeks.

What this means for importers and supply chains?

These extended holds are having a real impact across supply chains. Importers are experiencing:

• Increased direct costs, including demurrage, detention, terminal storage and airline storage;
• Disruption to delivery schedules and missed delivery windows;
• Challenges meeting customer orders or contract deadlines;
• Potential penalties for late delivery and, in some cases, the risk of lost future business.

Unfortunately, any costs incurred while cargo is under ABF control cannot be recovered from ABF and ultimately remain the responsibility of the importer.

Industry engagement with ABF

IFCBAA has formally raised these concerns with Australian Border Force and is seeking greater insight into what’s driving the extended delays — whether this is due to increased demand or broader operational or system constraints.

While ABF is unable to intervene in individual cases or provide estimated release times, IFCBAA continues to engage with ABF and has also offered industry support where possible during this particularly busy period.

Important information for Importers:

• Shipments placed on ABF border, redline or examination holds cannot be expedited by customs brokers or freight forwarders
• ABF does not provide estimated release timeframes while cargo is under hold
• All brokers and forwarders are operating under the same constraints until ABF releases the cargo

Our advice to clients:

We recommend allowing for additional time buffers when planning shipments, particularly for time-sensitive cargo, and managing downstream expectations where possible. Please know that CGL is actively monitoring the situation and will continue to keep clients informed as further updates become available through IFCBAA and ABF. While these delays are outside our control, our team remains committed to clear communication and proactive support throughout the process.

We are here to help!

If you have any questions or concerns about how this may affect your shipments, please don’t hesitate to reach out to the team at Clarke Global Logistics on +61 3 9854 3000 or send us an email to enquiry@clarkeglobal.com.au