Software firm CCS-UK is trialling a new e-collection note that it hopes will replace the paper version that is currently used for the pick up of air cargo shipments at airports.
The electronic collection note is downloaded as a QR code by the forwarder, direct to the driver’s pre-registered smartphone through CCS-UK’s AIS system.
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.
With the digital system, if there is a legitimate last-minute change – such as a different driver or vehicle – forwarders can amend the collection advice without the driver needing to return to the forwarder.
The old paper-based system requires agents to produce a hard-copy collection note, which their own driver or transport contractor then presents to the handling agent in order to obtain the release of the cargo.
“Not only are current processes time-consuming but there can be a risk of fraudulent activity,” CCS-UK explained.
Logistics firm GEODIS and cargo handler dnata are currently trialling the new 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.”
Tania Boyes, corporate assurance director for dnata UK, added: “We are very proud that 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 AIS system allows freight agents and their transport contractors to pre-advise transit sheds of their air import collections and export drop-offs.
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