TSA Amendments for ITS Cargo Set To Expire in Late October
The Transportation Security Agency (TSA) will be replacing old regulations for Impractical to Screen (ITS) cargo. On October 31, 2023, these TSA amendments will expire, which will change the way shippers export cargo to other countries.
What Is ITS Cargo?
ITS cargo is freight that’s either too large, bulky, or awkwardly shaped for air freight providers to screen using normal procedures.
The standard process for screening cargo traveling by air includes:
- Visual and manual checks
- X-ray
- Explosive detection
Completing these steps can be difficult or impossible when dealing with ITS freight. Cargo that falls into this category often comes in the form of barrels or machinery. Without the right screening guidelines, ITS freight can become a security risk.
This is why the TSA has implemented numerous regulations that have to be followed before shipping off this kind of air cargo.
Out With the Old, In With the New
Back on June 30, 2021, the TSA implemented a regulatory change that mandated 100% screening for all air cargo sent from the U.S. to non-U.S. locations. While this method, no doubt, increased the level of security and safety of freight traveling abroad via plane, it has put a serious damper on the supply chain.
To ease certain supply chains, the TSA implemented amendments that would allow ITS cargo to bypass the 100% screening requirement. The ITS amendments will be expiring on October 31st, 2023. After the expiration date, freight shipments traveling by plane will need to be screened to the same extent as all other air cargo as defined by the Certified Cargo Screening Program (CCSP).
These screenings must also occur at Certified Cargo Screening Facilities (CCSF). Air freight that’s accepted by a CCSF won’t require further screening. These items can also travel on a passenger or all-cargo aircraft traveling to a non-U.S. destination.
How the CCSP and Becoming A CCSF Can Help
Using the CCSP program will provide a variety of advantages to exporters.
The benefits of the CCSP include:
- Expedited movement of cargo
- Manufacturers can package and ship cargo
- Avoidance of cargo screening fees
Products traveling from the U.S. to a non-U.S. location must be submitted to a CCSF. Numerous parties in the supply chain can become a registered CCSF with the TSA if they tender cargo to a freight forwarder or air carrier.
The entities that can obtain this qualification include:
- Third-party logistics providers (3PLs)
- Manufacturing facilities
- Shippers
- Warehouses
- Distribution centers
Since these parties can become a CCSF, it gives them much more control over the screening process. As a result, the supply chain becomes more efficient.
How R+L Global Logistics Can Help
At R+L Global Logistics, we have a dedicated customs team with expert knowledge on all import and export regulations. When the new TSA amendments on ITS cargo com to an end on October 31, 2023, you can count on us to be ready. Our customs team can also provide a variety of other export services.
These include:
- Export screening
- Certificates of origin
- Product classification
- Export licensing
Get the help you need and export your goods with ease by calling (877) 510-9133. They’ll provide the assistance required to make all of your export shipments a success.