GACAG sets up roadmap to speed implementation of e-cargo in 2013

THE Global Air Cargo Advisory Group (GACAG) has created a "roadmap for paperless air cargo" to accelerate the industry's adoption of e-Cargo in 2013.

The group previously stated its intention to collaborate towards the vision of an end-to-end paperless transport process for air cargo and the new e-freight roadmap outlines the approach, scope, and overall plan the GACAG members intend to promote to bring that vision to reality.

The roadmap outlines a shared end-to-end industry approach, with clear leadership roles, around three core components or pillars.

Pillar I involves engaging regulators and governments worldwide to create an e-freight route network with fully electronic customs procedures and to come up with regulations to support paperless shipments.

Pillar II calls for working collaboratively within the cargo supply chain to digitise the core documents, starting with the air waybill.

Pillar III requires developing a plan to digitise the commercial and special cargo documents typically accompanying air freight today, in or outside of the cargo pouch.

Said GACAG chairman Michael Steen: "This new roadmap will form the basis to manage the e-freight initiative moving forward and fully integrates the work done previously in the context of the e-freight project. It also identifies a number of areas where further work needs to be done in collaboration between the different associations that are members of GACAG and that represent the entire air cargo supply chain. This work includes standards, business process and other areas."

The move was welcomed by Des Vertannes, head of cargo for the International Air Transport Association (IATA), which began the e-cargo initiative.

"This is a strong signal of the commitment of GACAG members to collaborate for an even safer, more secure, efficient and sustainable air cargo industry," Mr Vertannes said.