FAST Update

Possible Extension of FAST Hours of Operation at BOTA

October 5, 2004 -- CBP and trade representatives decided that when the number of FAST shipments through the BOTA Bridge reaches 35% of the total, the hours of operation at BOTA for FAST shipments only will be extended to 12:00 midnight. There are currently about 1500 shipments per day through BOTA, so 35% of the current volume is 525 shipments daily.

It was also decided that when the number of FAST shipments through the BOTA Bridge reaches 50% of the total volume through BOTA, the BOTA Bridge will be dedicated to FAST shipments only.

Several importers have expressed an interest in 24-hour operations at BOTA. CBP agreed that 24-hour operation is possible if the traffic justifies the increased manpower. The minimum number of shipments required to justify a third shift would be an average of 15 shipments per hour, or 120 shipments over an 8-hour shift.