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CCS-UK tries out e-collection note

[ November 28, 2023   //   ]

CCS-UK is testing a new electronic air cargo collection note as part of its Advance Information System (AIS).

The e-collection note replaces the traditional paper version which requires airfreight forwarders to produce a hard copy collection note, which the driver or transport contractor then presents to the handling agent to release the cargo.

The software firm says that not only are current processes time-consuming, but carry a risk of fraud.

The new, electronic version is downloaded as a QR code by the forwarder, direct to the driver’s pre-registered smartphone. This is scanned when the driver arrives at the handling agent to collect the cargo, which initiates a check against the shipment collection advice along with validation of driver and vehicle details.

If there is any discrepancy, the handler will not release the goods; however, in the event of a legitimate cause for the discrepancy (such as last-minute change of driver or vehicle), forwarders can amend the collection advice, avoiding the driver having to return to base.

Logistics service provider Geodis and cargo handler Dnata are currently trying out the system at London Heathrow.

Geodis UK managing director Chris Packwood said: “All our collections and deliveries to the airline transit sheds are already managed through the AIS system, so this latest development is a natural progression for us. It will significantly reduce the risk of fraudulent collections that has always existed with paper collection notes.

“Once we have fully tested and validated the process and systems, it would make a great deal of sense for widespread adoption of the e-collection note to take place by the entire air cargo community. This would strengthen security, improve efficiency and drive much-needed modernisation of processes at UK airports.”

Dnata UK corporate assurance director, Tania Boyes, added: “Dnata has been involved in the development of the AIS system from the start. The e-collection note is another big step forward in helping the industry to improve efficiency and reduce the potential for erroneous or fraudulent collections.”

The CCS-UK AIS module – free to all registered CCS-UK users – enables freight agents and their transport contractors to pre-advise transit sheds of their air import collections and export drop-offs. Submitting information via AIS enables handlers to better allocate their resources and schedule workflows. By pre-allocating truck door slots, they can reduce truck queues and waiting times during peak periods. Freight agents can also use the AIS ‘Air waybill watch’ feature to track specific air waybills and receive updates on the shipment status, enabling them to better plan vehicle movements.

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