Oman Makes Pallets Mandatory for All Air and Sea Cargo Imports
Starting September 15, 2026, Oman has mandated the use of pallets for all imported shipments arriving via air and sea ports that can be mechanically handled.
- Issued by the Directorate General of Customs of the Royal Oman Police based on Article 44 of the GCC Unified Customs Law
- Applies to all cargo arriving at Muscat, Sohar, Salalah, or other Omani ports on or after this date, regardless of dispatch date from India
- Exporters, freight forwarders, and logistics companies must use wooden, plastic, or metal pallets
Compliance and Material Requirements
For wooden pallets, Maersk and other shipping lines emphasize compliance with international ISPM-15 treatment and marking requirements. While the rule aims to streamline customs examination and cargo handling, certain goods—such as bulk or loose cargo, heavy machinery, pipes, coils, steel rolls, marble blocks, and liquids—may qualify for exemptions. However, authorities warn that exemptions are not automatic and should be verified with local customs brokers or the Oman Customs authority.
Risks and Trade Impact
Non-compliant shipments face the risk of being returned to the country of origin, which may incur additional return freight, storage, demurrage, and detention charges. This development is particularly significant given the India–Oman Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), which provides Indian exports with zero-duty access to approximately 98.08% of Oman's tariff lines. In FY 2024-25, India exported approximately $4.06 billion in merchandise to Oman, spanning sectors including agriculture, processed food, engineering products, textiles, pharmaceuticals, and auto components.
How to Contact and Prepare
Exporters are advised to confirm compliance with Omani importers and customs brokers before dispatch. For inquiries, the Oman Directorate General of Customs can be contacted at 80080022, +968 22848232, or via email at [email protected].