CMA CGM: Key compliance changes to shipments transhipping via German ports

In light of the ongoing modernization of EU Customs systems and security requirements, the German Customs Administration (Zoll) has implemented updates under the ATLAS Release 10.1 framework. ATLAS (Automated Tariff and Local Customs Clearance System) is Germany’s official electronic customs system used for all import, export and transit declarations.

Scope

For cargo transshipped via German ports, arriving by feeder or mother vessels, operated by CMA-CGM, partner vessels or by any third-party feeder operator, the export manifest data and the import manifest data filed at German Customs must fully match before the onward journey loading is permitted by the local Authorities.

This mandatory requirement applies to all maritime cargo transshipped via Germany. Meaning that before the cargo loading onto the outbound vessel, the export manifest will be matched against the import manifest (inbound data) by the German Customs; only shipments with fully matching data will be released for loading to the onward journey.

Go-live date

These key compliance changes will be effective from:

- 21st of June 2026 for Bremerhaven (DEBRV) and Wilhelmshaven (DEWVN)

- 1st of July 2026 for Hamburg (DEHAM)

Requirements

In order to ensure full compliance with the Customs requirements and to avoid disruptions, you are kindly requested to:
• Provide complete and accurate SI, in accordance with the documentation cut-offs. Kindly respect the documentation deadlines, as a strict rule NO DOCUMENTS = NO LOAD will be applied
• Ensure consistency between data in the Bill of Lading (B/L), ENS filings and export declarations. The following data must be complete, accurate, consistent and identical across all submissions: goods description, package, HS code, shipper/consignee/notify party, number of packages & weight, identifiers (MRN, ENS etc.), correct dangerous goods (IMO/UN number) info when applicable
• Be informed that any kind of mismatched information between the import and export manifest data, may result in legal liability, delays, cargo holds by Customs, detention, fines, storage expenses, and/or any other kind of costs and expenses borne by the customer requesting the amendment. Thus, amendments after SI submission are discouraged.