Changes to Transport Canada’s Air Cargo Security (ACS) Program

Changes to Transport Canada’s Air Cargo Security (ACS) Program

As part of the ongoing improvements to the Air Cargo Security (ACS) Program, Transport Canada has amended the Canadian Aviation Security Regulations, 2012 to expand the air cargo Secure Supply Chain. The changes will allow authorized shippers to screen their own cargo for security risks at points within the supply chain and other cargo operators, such as transportation companies and warehousing facilities to accept, store and / or transport cargo that authorized participants have screened and made secure. These amendments will increase supply chain security while reducing cargo screening bottlenecks at airports.

Canadian shippers are able to apply to participate in the Air Cargo Security (ASC) Program under one of two proposed new participant categories – Known Consignor or Account Consignor.

If you wish to be able to secure your own cargo through a screening process applied at the time of packing, we recommend you apply to become a Known Consignor. Otherwise, your cargo will need to be screened prior to being uplifted on certain domestic, trans-border and international aircraft as of October 17, 2016.

Please Note: As of October 17, 2016, the “Registered Shipper” category will no longer exist in Canada. It is advised that any companies currently participating under the “Registered Shipper” category submit an application to become a Known Consignor by March 31, 2016 to avoid screening delays.

For more information on the Air Cargo Security Program, or to apply as a Known Consignor, please see the ACS Shipper Fact Sheet or visit the ACS Program website

We’re here to help! Contact us for more information on the ACS Program or other shipping requirements.