AIRFORWARDERS Association (AfA) executive director Brandon Fried has urged shippers to prepare for US air cargo security enhancements, which come into force in October affecting certain types of freight on international all-cargo flights, reports the American Journal of Transportation.

The temporary Impracticable to Screen Amendment will come to an end on October 31st 2023, meaning cargo that cannot be screened using traditional methods due to size or volume restrictions will not be eligible for air transportation unless shippers are enrolled in one of Transport Security Administration's (TSA) authorised cargo security programmes.

Shippers can join one of the programmes on a voluntary basis to gain trusted status.

Said Mr Fried: "TSA is holding the line on this, there will be no extension. We have started in-person meetings, as well as webinars to explain the options and we need forwarders to work with their shipper customers and support them to work with TSA and join a programme.

"There will only be three options after October 31; join one of the programmes, use sea freight instead of air freight, or don't ship cargo at all,§ Mr Fried told delegates at the recent CNS Partnership Conference in Miami.

AfA will be holding its next face-to-face meeting about the security programmes on June 27 in Chicago, working with the International Air Cargo Association of Chicago and the Chicago Brokers and Forwarders Association, followed by events in New York and Los Angeles.

"If you want us to come to your city, let us know,§ said Mr Fried.