More than 90 percent of all goods moved internationally are carried in containers, and around 8 million freight containers arrive at U.S. ports each year. The GE solution will establish a global mechanism for in-transit freight container security for all classes of cargo, without impeding the movement of international trade.
“The future of global commerce depends on the ability of the shipping industry and government agencies to improve [JR1][JR1]cargo security while facilitating the efficient flow of goods,” said Greg Burge, President of Networked Services for GE’s Security business. “As one of the world’s leading shippers and container lessors, GE has a significant stake in developing and deploying a safe, reliable and cost-effective global solution.”
The palm-sized container security device (CSD) easily fastens without special tools to the door jamb inside any standard maritime container. The cargo’s manufacturer uses a wireless handheld device to arm the device with a unique identifier code.
The CSD automatically communicates its status to fixed wireless readers at ports, indicating when and where the container has been opened since it was initially sealed. Customs officials can also inspect the cargo at any time using a special handheld wireless device to arm and disarm the CSD. When the container is delivered, the importer verifies the access record and disarms the CSD prior to opening.
All data is stored and managed through a secure information backbone. Communication between wireless readers and container security devices is encrypted, as are all transaction records.
The container security device was developed by Sweden-based All Set Marine Security AB, and has been tested by the U.S. government and private industry. The capabilities of the device are amplified through GE’s access control platform and sensor suites, and the company’s expertise in wireless handheld transactional software and data management networks.
“GE is uniquely positioned to lead the development of a global solution because of its capabilities in high-volume manufacturing, commercial deployment, technology integration and customer support,” said Burge.
