With a new remote security system, Dutch Customs will now be able to view shipments being scanned at the premises of freight forwarders and handlers, from the Customs Control Center at Schiphol Amsterdam Airport.
Customs can then decide if selected shipments require physical inspection.
Rhenus Logistics and Customs is undertaking a trial program. Once fully operational throughout the airport community, the Remote Scanning scheme – part of the ongoing SmartGate Cargo project – will speed up the flow of freight and reduce the incidence of physical inspections.
The Schiphol SmartGate Cargo program is a joint initiative of Customs, Schiphol, Air Cargo Netherlands and KLM Cargo.
“Once fully operational, this new remote scanning system will play a significant part in further streamlining the handling of air cargo through Schiphol. The system demonstrates that innovation and collaboration will continue to enable the industry to maintain speed and competitiveness,” Enno Osinga, Schiphol Cargo’s senior vice president, said. “We are very fortunate in the Netherlands that both our government and our Customs authorities recognize the vast importance of logistics to our economy and actively work together with industry to ensure that security and compliance, and operational efficiency are given equal consideration.”