TIR containers
Page 45
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My attention has been drawn to the answer given to the question relating to TIR containers in 0 and A (CM February 28). I am writing to correct what appears to be a somewhat incomplete appreciation of the position.
It is true that TIR Convention makes no specific provision for the repair of containers, although in the case of sheets of sheeted containers the rules set out in Paragraph 5 of Article 5 on Annex 3 apply. However, only such containers as meet all the requirements of the Convention are acceptable for the carriage of goods under TIR carnet, and any repairs must be made so that after repair the container complies fully with the requirements of the technical annexes to the Convention.
Where a container, operating under TIR carnet is damaged in such a way that the Customs seals are broken or the security of the container is impaired, the carrier is required to obtain a certified report in the form prescribed in Annex 2 to the Convention from the authorities (normally the Customs) in the country in which the damage takes place. For this purpose carriers should provide themselves with copies of the approved report form which are available from the guaranteeing associations. The detailed rules, which also provide for the transfer of the load to another vehicle or container in appropriate circumstances and for action to be taken by the driver on his own initiative in emergency, are set out in paragraphs 11-14 of the Rules for the Use of the TIR Camet on page 3 of the cover of the Carnet.
M. NOCKLES Principal Information Officer, HM Customs and Excise