Issue 423, November 24, 2003
Last week, the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) issued security directives to all air carriers of cargo. The directives authorize random inspections of cargo moving on all U.S. and foreign-flag passenger aircraft, as well as shipments moving on U.S. and foreign all-cargo aircraft. The rules apply to planes operating on U.S. domestic routes, and on all international routes to and from the United States.

Effective immediately, carriers are authorized, under TSA supervision, to conduct random inspections of any or all airfreight shipments. These inspections may go so far as actually opening the shipments that you tender to us and that we tender to the carriers.

For security reasons, carriers are prohibited from sharing with us the details of their inspection programs. Thus, we are unable to share any information with you. We are aware that implementation of the directives may pose significant challenges. However, we believe the directives are an important step forward in strengthening the security of the air supply chain while preserving the free flow of global trade. We also believe they will forge a stronger bond between shippers, carriers, forwarders and the end customers.

Our top priority is safeguarding the goods that you tender to us. We will work hard to make this transition as seamless and transparent as possible. Please contact your local sales representative with questions or concerns, and we will do our best to work with you.

Please note that due to the complex nature of the subject matter, DHL Danzas Air & Ocean cannot be responsible for actions taken by the reader in reliance on the information contained herein without prior consultation with DHL Danzas Air & Ocean.