Since 1 March 2019, all outbound international cargo and as of 1 July 2021 all domestic cargo from/within Australia must be examined at piece-level by a Regulated Air Cargo Agent (RACA) or originate from a Known Consignor.
Kuehne+Nagel is a Regulated Air Cargo Agent and offers an efficient, safe, and secure way for your air cargo shipments ensuring optimised cargo flow and providing maximum flexibility and visibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the new regulations?
The Australian Government announced on 8 May 2018, that to further strengthen Australia’s domestic and international aviation security, a range of measures would be introduced in 2019. As a consequence since 1 March 2019, all international air freight exported out of Australia is required to be security screened at piece level by a Regulated Air Cargo Agent (RACA) or have originated from a Known Consignor. As of 1 July 2021 this requirement is also in place for all domestic air freight shipments. This is to ensure that every piece of cargo being loaded onto an aircraft complies with the safety measures to keep all users of the aviation industry safe.
How does this affect the industry?
100% piece screening for air cargo going to the USA has been in place since 1 July 2017. This accounted for around 5% of cargo, leaving the remainder to be unscreened. It was extended to all export cargo as of 1 March 2019 and to domestic cargo leaving from ADL, BNE, MEL, PER, SYD as of 1 July 2020 (Phase 2). Phase 3 will include all remaining regional airports effective 1 July 2021.
How is screening for cargo organised?
All cargo requiring screening needs to be conducted by an accredited RACA under an Enhanced Air Cargo Examination Notice. To support our customers, Kuehne+Nagel Australia has proactively taken the decision to become an accredited RACA in order to minimise potential delays and to support increased security measures. This ensures our customers’ cargo is screened in a timely manner to help maximise efficiencies and minimise delays of getting cargo to its next destination.
How does the screening occur?
Leveraging our global Kuehne+Nagel network, we are able to apply best practices within our business to ensure we have the most efficient methods in place for our screening processes.
Kuehne+Nagel Australia has heavily invested in special equipment and infrastructure upgrades to support customers who benefit from partnering with us.
What is the turnaround time to get cargo screened?
While it is not a new service being offered by Kuehne+Nagel globally, this was a new service offered in Australia. The turnaround time is short and we have not encountered any issues since the beginning of March 2019. Utilising our own equipment and global best practices, we are be able to do this efficiently to help minimise any delays in getting cargo screened and lodged following the new regulations.
Can anyone use the RACA screening services Kuehne+Nagel will provide?
Kuehne+Nagel’s existing customers receive priority treatment for the RACA screening services. Excitingly, this service has been extended into the market for anyone exporting cargo via air freight as well as using domestic services. Kuehne+Nagel is proud to have had the opportunity to work with the Australian Government, the Aviation industry and our global counterparts to be part of this necessary service to protect the aviation industry. We are pleased to be able to offer this service in Australia.
How much will it cost for customers to use the RACA services?
The cost depends on what customers require and the nature and composition of the freight that has to be screened. We encourage all customers to contact their Kuehne+Nagel representative to speak about their current and future business requirements. If you are new to Kuehne+Nagel, please email KNAU_RACA@kuehne-nagel.com to enquire about your specific needs today.