PRA-Communicating Effectively with Stevedores

Pre-Receival Advice (PRA) is an informal communication between exporters and stevedores in which the former provides details about the containers to be shipped and the latter responds with cargo acceptance. The PRA can take place either online or offline, depending on the logistics company's preference. In some cases, the PRA may be conducted via email or phone call.

The PRA is an important part of the container shipping process because it allows both parties to learn more about each other and clarify their expectations before shipping starts. It also helps prevent misunderstandings that can lead to problems during shipping. It has been suggested that pre-receival advice as a system of communication is less efficient than other communication systems, but it is still important as it can help ensure that all parties are aware of established commitment deadlines, penalties for late arrival and losses, etc.

Transporting goods by sea makes it essential to co-ordinate with all parties involved in the supply chain. The information supplied by the exporter – via a PRA – helps a stevedore to allocate the required equipment, equipment providers and delivery transport, as well as to complete documentation for risk management and customs purposes.

PRA forms can be submitted online, making it easier for exporters and stevedores to exchange information. It does not replace any shipping advice given by an exporter or accept cargo for loading onto a vessel. A PRA should include general container information such as: name of vessel; vessel ETA; quantity of containers; goods description; weight of goods; packing details; special requirements such as reefer, flaptrack or tank container.

It is a good idea to get ready for the process by reading all the information available on Exporter Supply Chain Assurance System (ESCAS) website so that you understand what to expect and what information needs to be provided by you. ESCAS is a voluntary system, but Australia expects all exporters to comply with it. It does not matter if you are an established or new business; as an exporter, it is your responsibility to ensure that any ESCAS requirements are met before sending goods offshore..

A pre-receival advice form should be filled out completely. The form should include:

Name and contact information of the exporter
Details about the container including type of container and size of container, weight, dimensions (length, width and height), contents, country of origin and destination country
Information about the consignee such as: contact information, address, phone number, email address and details about how the consignee will receive shipment
Information about what kind of insurance coverage is required for this shipment (if any)
Information about how customs clearance will be handled
Any other important details for example, if you’re shipping a container full of electronics, you should specify that all items are brand new and have never been used before. This may help reduce the risk of customs duties being charged on your shipment.

Here are some tips for establishing PRA with your stevedores:

Have a clear understanding of the cargo you're shipping and what it needs to be shipped in. If you don't know, ask us!
Do your research on the best practices for container shipping and how to handle different types of cargo. We'll help you make informed decisions about how to ship your goods.
Make sure that you understand what customs clearance procedures will be required when you arrive at your destination port.
Make sure that your documents are in order and all required signatures are present before you load your goods into a container.
Ensure that the stevedores have access to the correct documentation for the cargo and that they understand how to properly handle it if there is any doubt about its suitability for shipping in a container (e.g., dangerous goods, handling instructions).
Make sure that your stevedores are aware of all necessary procedures related to ESCAS requirements (if applicable).

Once you have established contact with your stevedore’s representative, it is important that you keep them informed about progress made on your shipment throughout every step of its journey from port to port; this helps ensure that all parties are working towards shared goals and deadlines across all involved parties.

The PRA process is an important tool for ensuring that all stakeholders have a full understanding of what will be shipped, where it will go, how it will be loaded and unloaded, and any other information that may impact their ability to safely ship cargo on-time or at all.

In the end, a solid PRA system can save both sides time, money, and additional costs by minimizing cargo damage. But don't forget the most important conclusion of all: communicate with your freight forwarder about your PRA procedures and requirements as early in the process as possible. This makes it easier for your freight forwarder to prepare for export shipments and make any necessary changes to their processes. This, in turn, will minimize problems that could potentially arise later on in the process.

The key takeaway from this article is to be sure that you're communicating effectively with your stevedores. If something seems off, it's important to investigate and understand the cause before it becomes a bigger problem. Also, stevedores are also just normal people doing a job—treat them kindly and they'll be more inclined to help you when you need it.

To bring it all back to the language of business, PRA is beneficial because it leads to efficient cargo operations in the port. Massively increased communication has been shown to reduce demurrage and detainment costs, and a reduction in these costs means more money in the pockets of exporters and shipping lines alike. Plus, there's seemingly no limit to how much information can be exchanged through this two-way communication—and that is where its true power lies. PRA is a useful tool for any business that deals with logistics. It's a powerful way to boost efficiency and reduce costs, both of which are important factors in any company's success.