Cargo Screening: What You Need to Know

Whether you’re transporting goods across the state or across the country, it’s important to know that the cargo you’re carrying is safe and secure. To ensure your safety and security, air cargo must be screened at TSA-approved facilities and can only be transported by individuals with proper credentials. This article will walk you through everything you need to know about cargo screening so that you can transport your products with peace of mind. For more information, contact Greer Trucking today.

Who Needs Air Cargo Screening?

Not all air cargo needs to be screened. Generally, only those shipments that exceed any of these parameters need to be screened in an approved TSA Cargo-Screening Facility: (1) $15,000 USD or more; (2) 3 pounds or more of Division 6.1 explosives per package; (3) 20 pounds or more of flammable liquids and solids; and/or (4) 20 pounds or more of Division 4.2 materials per package.

Why Choose Greer Trucking's Trusted and Approved TSA Facility?

TSA-approved facilities are called Certified Cargo Screening Facilities (CCSFs). They secure, maintain chain of custody, and comply with TSA regulations concerning screening and transport of air cargo. No one knows your shipments like Greer Trucking. We offer a personal touch to go along with our expertise. From start to finish, we’ll ensure that you have all you need to succeed in business. And when it comes time for an audit or inspection by TSA or other government agencies, we’re here for you. It’s what makes us unique among logistics companies in Georgia. 

How Is Air Cargo Screened?

When a company ships goods via air cargo, there are many processes involved in transporting and securing those goods. First, TSA must be notified that your shipment is on its way; then it’s tracked by local law enforcement agencies; and finally, when it arrives at its destination airport, it’s screened using several different methods. The type of screening depends on what kind of cargo you’re shipping. If you’re shipping explosives or weapons, for example, they will go through an explosive detection system (EDS) or x-ray machine before being loaded onto an aircraft. But if you’re shipping something like food products or clothing items, they may only need to pass through a metal detector before being placed on planes for transport to their final destination.

Do I Have To Ship Through A Certificated Screener?

As a shipper, there are many things you should consider when evaluating your cargo security. One thing that shouldn’t be overlooked is whether or not you have to use a certified cargo screener. There are many misconceptions about what is needed in order for your company to meet TSA regulations and it can become quite confusing. Before moving forward with any screening companies, talk with a trusted freight expert who can guide you through each step of choosing which screening method is best for your product or load.  This is especially important if you plan on shipping overseas as different countries have different standards.

Why is Secure Chain of Custody so Important?

All air cargo undergoes screening. Whether you’re flying internationally or domestically, it is likely your shipment will go through a Certified Cargo Screening Facility (CCSF). When operating a CCSF, you must keep an accurate record of who screens a package and when. This process is known as chain of custody. If someone has tampered with your container before it gets to its destination, then you have a problem. If there is no proof that it was screened at all, then you have another problem on your hands.