A new, electronic air cargo collection note is set to revolutionise cargo collections from airlines’ ground handlers in the UK, improving security and efficiency.

Designed by CCS-UK as the latest enhancement to its Advance Information System (AIS), the “e-collection note” replaces the traditional paper version which has been in use for decades. 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 release of the cargo. Not only are current processes time-consuming, but there can be a risk of fraudulent activity.

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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), the process enables freight forwarders to amend the collection advice, avoiding the need for the driver to return to base.

Logistics service provider GEODIS and cargo handler dnata are currently trialling the new system at London Heathrow. Says Geodis UK MD Chris Packwood: “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.”

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Tania Boyes, Corporate Assurance Director for dnata UK, adds: “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 e-collection note is a further enhancement of the CCS-UK AIS module, which enables freight agents and their transport contractors to pre-advise transit sheds of their air import collections and export drop-offs. Submitting this 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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