The importance of Cargo Compliance Verification (CCV) inspections
CCV inspections are conducted on containerised sea cargo imported into Australia and aim to:
- ensure that import controls are operating effectively
- provide information on emerging biosecurity risks from commodities which are not typically directed for inspection.
CCV directions are randomly applied to consignments that would not typically be directed for inspection. This random selection allows us to better understand the broader biosecurity risk associated with sea cargo.
These inspections are also a valuable opportunity to discuss biosecurity requirements with importers and their agents, including those who may have had limited interaction with us.
We recognise that your consignment would not usually have been inspected but we will endeavour to minimise disruption to the import process.
What biosecurity officers are looking for
Our officers will be looking for things that pose a biosecurity risk such as soil, animal or plant material, and live animals including insects etc.
They will inspect the commodity, packing materials and cleanliness of the container (both internal and external surfaces) with the documents that you have submitted to the department.
If biosecurity risk material is found, then the action taken by the biosecurity officer will depend on the level of biosecurity risk identified. The issue may be resolved on-site, or the consignment may require re-direction to an Approved Arrangement (AA) site for investigation or treatment. The biosecurity officer will discuss their concerns with you and the options available to you.
Fees and charges will apply if your goods do not comply with import requirements. In instances of significant non-compliance, the department may direct future imports for inspection until a history of compliance has been re-established.
More information
- Booking a CCV inspection
- Have a question? Contact the CCV program 1800 900 090
- To report a biosecurity concern, call the See. Secure. Report. Hotline on 1800 798 636
- Search (BICON) to know what biosecurity import conditions apply to your goods