MNX selects Descartes platform for air cargo screening programme

US-based MNX Global Logistics has selected Descartes Air Cargo Advance Screening (Descartes ACAS) for the new mandatory air cargo advance screening (ACAS) programme.

The ACAS is a joint US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and Transportation Security Administration (TSA) programme that mandates cargo data should be submitted prior to loading at a foreign airport.

Descartes ACAS is a Cloud-based platform that enables the logistics company to comply with the new mandatory advanced security filing requirements for air cargo imports into the US.

The programme, which recently became mandatory for air forwarders and carriers, also aims to enhance security and offer visibility to cargo before it is in the air.

MNX Global Logistics chief operating officer Tom Belmont said: “Descartes provides us with the technology platform to display innovation leadership, ensure cargo security, and lead the industry in standards for screening and moving high-value shipments around the world.”

Leveraging Descartes Global Logistics Network (Descartes GLN), the new Descartes ACAS solution gathers the needed data, validates the data format and passes it on to CBP within the required timeframes.

After collecting house bill information directly from air forwarders’ enterprise systems, the Descartes GLN files the data directly to CBP automatically. This increases data accuracy and timeliness in the process.

Descartes Global Logistics Network vice-president Scott Sangster said: “Along with MNX, we’ve been involved with the ACAS pilot since its inception, and Descartes’ solution has been built in close collaboration with CBP, TSA and leading, early adopting air forwarders. We look forward to continuing to be a trusted service provider for MNX and the air cargo community.”

Descartes offers on-demand, software-as-a-service solutions focused on improving the productivity, performance and security of logistics-intensive businesses.