Globalization is characterized by the worldwide flow of goods and trade relations. However, despite the advanced level of trade exchange, imports into the USA, like imports into the EU, are not an easy undertaking. US customs law is subject to various international agreements, which are implemented in complex sets of customs regulations and provisions from other authorities. It therefore makes sense for logistics service providers to support their customers in exporting their goods to the USA. In addition to knowledge of the rules, it is also necessary to be sensitive to special features and current developments. The issue of supply chain security is and will remain highly important depending on the geopolitical situation. We can therefore expect to see even greater demands on external controls abroad and on companies' internal controls in the future.

Data in real time
For customers, the main focus is on reliable and practical solutions - after all, transportation should be as smooth, fast and secure as possible. The logistics service provider BLG Logistics is therefore working intensively with its partner SecureSystem on the subject of customs clearance in a field test. Under the title FastLane, the IT and logistics experts are testing the use of a monitoring and tracking device that can be used to track the smooth flow of goods. This is achieved by using digital data in real time to support the complex customs decision-making processes. The aim is to increase the level of security by providing real-time data to customs authorities and thus achieve rapid customs clearance.

Keeping an eye on goods using sensors
In recent years, BLG Logistics has gained extensive experience in tracking goods using sensors. The Freight Quality Tracking (FQT) service has already been developed in cooperation with customers and by using the findings from various sensor-based innovation and research projects. With this service, freight quality, location and status data can be visualized and monitored in real time. Precise analysis and evaluation of the data can be used to intervene immediately in the event of delays, damage or even loss of the transported goods and keep transport costs low.

The new FastLane project goes one step further. Companies are already sharing data that can be used for risk assessment with the customs authorities via a sensor. BLG Logistics and SecureSystem are currently working together with initial test partners. Use in practice should show how reliable the generated data is. The test partners receive all the monitoring and status data that the system transmits in order to track the goods during transportation. In addition to humidity, temperature and position, light, vibrations and door opening are influencing factors that can have an impact on the quality, punctuality and integrity of the goods. BLG determines whether and to what extent the factors are relevant on an individual basis with the respective customer. The sensor system is based on patented Airbus Defense & Space technology and was further developed and launched on the market by SecureSystem.

Fast-Lane testing
The Fast-Lane project will initially test 20 containers. During transportation, the sensor system transmits real-time data relating to the location and integrity of the containers in order to better assess the risk profile of the container. If a container is opened unplanned during its journey, an alarm is triggered and made available to both the owner of the cargo and the customs authorities. The aim of the sensor technology is to detect unauthorized opening of containers. If the alarm is not triggered, the container can pass through the fast lane. Long waiting times can thus be avoided for unopened containers from industry and trade, as the extensive data has already been automatically provided and checked by customs. The border authorities support technologies that improve security and facilitate trade. The technology is in the starting blocks. Final preparations are currently being made for the first test run.