It is now just four weeks until 1 March 2019 when all export air cargo, regardless of destination, will need to be examined at piece-level or originate from a Known Consignor. This change is necessary to ensure that Australia is responding to the evolving terrorist threat.

AUSVEG strongly recommends any growers currently exporting via air freight to contact your freight forwarder to understand how they intend to manage the new security screening requirements.

If you haven’t already done so, you now need to finalise arrangements with your air cargo supply chain about how the change will impact your current export arrangements. For example:

  • Possible changes to delivery times or delays
  • Possible increases in costs

Your options to minimise the impact of the changes include reviewing the following:

  • Packaging of your products
  • Handling of consolidated cargo
  • Scheduling of your deliveries
  • How your cargo is transported

For further information growers can contact the AUSVEG Export team on (03) 9882 0277 or at export@ausveg.com.au. Alternatively, questions can be directed to the Department of Home Affairs at guidancecentre@homeaffairs.gov.au or call 1300 791 581.

This post appeared in the AUSVEG Weekly Update published 5 February 2019. Subscribe to the Update using our online form to receive the latest industry news in your inbox every week!