Cargo verification system helps stamp out fraud

A secure identification system that verifies those lodging or drawing cargo from warehouses and depots goes a long way toward ruling out fraud, corruption and theft. According to Marius van Jaarsveld, director of IVS, an identity verification systems company based on the East Rand, knowing who draws one’s cargo is critical in the current business environment where falsifying documents is not necessarily difficult. “We have developed a system that is endorsed by Saaff, Acoc and Saepa that enables agents to know exactly who is drawing their cargo at any time from any place, at the same time giving the airline or warehouse the assurance that the cargo is going to the right person.” The system immediately alerts all parties involved – by sms and email – if an unauthorised event occurs, allowing clients to react and secure their cargo. He says the system, which is continuously being developed, is used by a variety of airlines as well as agents to control their cargo at all times. In addition, where airlines, cargo handling agents or freight agents use the system to identify drawers and drivers when entering and exiting airport or warehouse facilities, it makes the management of transport easier and allows for better security en route by creating time-stamping from point of departure to point of arrival. In terms of CAA regulation Part 108 that regulates security of air freight, using the IVS system to identify the person delivering “known cargo” to airlines before verifying seals and other security measures helps ensure cargo received by airlines is in fact known. The system controls cargo drawers by linking a person’s personal identity and company details to a verification card. In the past an ID document, a company letterhead and a release document would see cargo released to the holder of the documents, but that did not necessarily guarantee that the person who had all these documents was in fact authorised to collect cargo. “With IVS’s technology, agents have the control in their hands as they determine who has access to the cargo. It also reduces and prevents theft and fraud.” Stephen Bracher, also a director of IVS, said companies were put through vigorous verification processes when they registered to use the system. “They then apply for permits on behalf of their staff. Each applicant is vetted individually and issued a permit.” The system is realtime and online, allowing everyone access to up-todate information on staff and cargo. “The system improves cargo security, providing more control and information for our clients, while helping them move to a paper free working environment.