Not all barriers are physical. Slowdowns in customs can significantly delay delivery of power. Planners should consider proposing special legislation to allow generators to be imported in emergencies. Provisions allowing temporary, duty-free imports of equipment can greatly expedite delivery. Contacts established with freight companies during the planning phase may increase availability of ships or air transports when a disaster occurs.
Finances are another stumbling block to be avoided.
As part of planning, emergency management agencies should agree on payment terms with mobile power suppliers. This may include issuing a letter of credit from a financial institution or budgeting the necessary funds. The plan should also be tested through simulation drills. In one common drill, participants are presented with a specific scenario and asked to respond to it according to the procedures outlined in the plan. It can be useful to involve the local electric utility in drills.