Air Cargo Security Program Changes Effective October 17 September 30, 2016 Starting October 17, 2016, changes to Transport Canada’s Air Cargo Security (ACS) Program will take effect, introducing more options for Canada’s air cargo industry to screen and secure cargo. As part of ongoing improvements to the ACS Program, these changes will allow authorized shippers to screen their own cargo for security risks at points within the supply chain and cargo operators, such as transportation companies and warehousing facilities, to accept, store, and/or transport cargo that authorized participants have screened and secured. These amendments will increase supply chain security while reducing cargo screening bottlenecks at airports. Canadian shippers can apply to participate in the ACS Program under one of two proposed new participant categories: Known Consignor or Account Consignor. If you wish to be able to secure your own cargo through a screening process at the time of packing, we recommend you apply to become a Known Consignor. Otherwise your cargo will need to be screened prior to being uplifted on certain domestic, trans-border and international aircraft as of October 17. Transport Canada will continue to process all applications received beyond the effective date. As the approval process may take up to 6 months, we recommend submitting your application as soon as possible. Please Note: The Registered Shipper category will no longer exist in Canada and existing Registered Shippers will be transitioned to Account Consignor status on October 17. It is advised that any companies currently participating under the Registered Shipper category apply to become a Known Consignor to avoid screening delays and additional costs. For more information, please refer to the ACS Shipper Fact Sheet or visit the ACS Program website. The Air Cargo Security Program Support Centre may also be reached via email at aircargo-fretaerien@tc.gc.ca or toll-free number 1-866-375-7342.
