Legal Definitions - sufferance wharves

Sufferance Wharves: These are wharves designated by the Commissioner of the Customs where goods can be received before any duties are paid.

For example, if a ship arrives at a port and the owner of the goods on board is not ready to pay the customs duties, the goods can be taken to a sufferance wharf. The goods will be stored there until the owner is ready to pay the duties and take possession of the goods.

Another example is when a company wants to import goods but does not have the necessary paperwork or permits. The goods can be taken to a sufferance wharf until the company obtains the necessary documents.

Sufferance wharves are designated areas where goods can be stored temporarily without paying customs duties. This allows for flexibility in the import/export process and helps to prevent delays. The examples illustrate how sufferance wharves can be used in different situations to facilitate trade.