The cargo community at Schiphol Airport will begin testing its new Secure Import system, designed to combat crime and enhance processing efficiency in air freight operations.
The Secure Import initiative merges a new framework agreement for cargo imports with a state-of-the-art IT platform created by Cargonaut and SmartLOXS, facilitating the digital processing of information. Schiphol officials assert that this digitalization “significantly reduces the risk of illicit activities,” improves process controllability, and supports more sustainable operations.
Collaboration within the Schiphol cargo community has led to a comprehensive redesign of import operational processes, resulting in tailored agreements for import carriers and freight forwarders. “This agreement framework forms the foundation for a modern and secure way of working,” an airport spokesperson stated.
Over the next month, the IT platform will undergo extensive testing by members of the cargo community. If the tests prove successful, the system will be implemented at Schiphol.
Air Cargo Netherlands (ACN) detailed that ground handlers will utilize the Secure Import system to notify forwarders when shipments are ready for collection. Within the same platform, forwarders can direct transporters to pick up these shipments. The system will verify the involved parties and inform ground handlers of the collection details.
A notable feature of Secure Import is its restriction on sharing sensitive shipment information strictly on a “need-to-know” basis, thereby preventing data manipulation by third parties. The system includes a secure e-Visit key that governs the necessary process steps for cargo transfer, ensuring that drivers receive cargo only once this key is validated.
Schiphol highlighted the urgency of developing Secure Import, citing the vulnerability of transport and logistics providers to criminal activity, particularly in airfreight, which often involves high-value products. “Logistics companies and their employees are facing increasing challenges due to criminal activities in cargo transport at Schiphol,” the airport noted, emphasizing that workers must be able to perform their jobs without threats or intimidation.
The Secure Import system is part of the Smart Cargo Mainport Program and has been developed in close consultation with its users, aiming to bolster security while improving operational efficiency in the air cargo chain.
