Relief period: October 29, 2025 through November 28, 2025.

Who this applies to

• ODPEM-coordinated relief imports: Donations consigned to the Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) qualify for full statutory exemption from Import Duty and GCT once certified by ODPEM for official relief operations.
• Donations to private individuals or institutions: Certain relief goods shipped to private persons, community groups, or unregistered entities may receive duty/tax remission at the discretion of the Commissioner of Customs under the Customs Act and GCT Act, subject to documentation.

Examples of eligible relief items

As indicated by the Government of Jamaica, examples include: food items, water, medical supplies, temporary shelters, equipment, bedding, clothing, hygiene kits, and limited building materials. For official lists and certification steps, see the links below.

What this means if you’re shipping from the Mid-Atlantic with Caribbean Cargo DC

1. Decide your pathway:
   • ODPEM route: Consign your shipment to ODPEM for coordinated relief. This is the most straightforward path to full duty/GCT exemption when properly certified.
   • Donation to an individual/institution: You may request relief; final approval rests with the Commissioner of Customs, based on purpose and documentation.
2. Gather documents (required at minimum):
   • Detailed packing list (quantities, descriptions, and values—even if donated).
   • Consignee details in Jamaica (name, address, TRN if available, phone, parish).
   • Purpose letter stating goods are for disaster-relief and identifying end-use or recipient.
   • Any ODPEM certifications or references (if shipping via ODPEM).
3. Ship within the relief window: To be considered under this notice, goods should arrive and be entered during the stated relief period (Oct 29–Nov 28, 2025). Book early to allow consolidation and ocean schedules.
4. Label clearly: Mark outer cartons “HURRICANE MELISSA RELIEF” and include consignee and contact numbers on each piece.
5. Talk to our team: We’ll review paperwork, book your barrel/box or pallet, and coordinate routing from our Mid-Atlantic facilities.

Official sources to learn more (before you ship)

• Government of Jamaica – ODPEM / National Relief: supportjamaica.gov.jm
• Jamaica Customs Agency (policies, forms, guidance): jacustoms.gov.jm
• Ministry of Finance & the Public Service (press releases): mof.gov.jm

Note: Relief eligibility, lists of qualifying goods, and documentation requirements are set by the Government of Jamaica and may be updated. Always confirm via the official links above before dispatch.

How to book with Caribbean Cargo DC

We’re fully operational from the U.S. Mid-Atlantic and actively consolidating relief barrels and boxes to Jamaica.
Contact us to schedule a drop-off or pick-up, or to request group/faith-based consolidations.

• Phone: (Insert CCDC main line)
• Email: (Insert bookings@ or relief@ address)
• Service area: Maryland • DC • Virginia • Delaware • Pennsylvania (and nearby)

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