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Background

Preparing Customs Documentation is a process that presents some serious difficulties.

First, the process itself is not simple. The forms are complex, and there is much detailed and specific information required.

Second, failure to complete the forms correctly can result is equipment being held for days whilst "the paperwork is sorted out." And can then result in extra duties, or extra fees for processing.

So it is easy to get it wrong. And getting it wrong can have serious implications.

The Requirement.

This client operates a survey company. Projects can take them around the world, with a team working in Africa one week, Asia the next. Surveys involve flying the data collection equipment over the target area, and considerable costs are incurred in operating the aircraft. Survey results are sometimes time critical, and the equipment used to conduct the survey is complex, and varies with the type of aircraft being used.

So the challenge is to track equipment moving rapidly from country to country, to ensure that all required equipment is at the right place at the right time, and to avoid the substantial costs for flights that are cancelled, either for want of a critical cable, or because a crucial piece of equipment is "held in customs".

The Solution

SageData used the Web variant of the standard BassetPro System, with extra functionality designed in for this specific client. One extra feature is the mandatory note - a warning that pops up when key components are scanned. A mobile hand held computer is used at the three key depots for tracking receipts and shipments. This unit is wireless, so that the user can move easily throughout the warehouse, and information collected is immediately available to all other authorised users world wide. Someone waiting in Afghanistan can watch in real time as a shipment is assembled in Alberta. (And can identify missing items in real time too.)

The Bonus.

During the discovery phase of the implementation for this system, it became apparant that assembling the correct materials for a shipment was only half the problem. Preparing the paperwork for customs was also a formidable task. Each item has to be identified, with details such as serial number, country of origin, harmonisation code and weight. And appropriate certification must be included. We realised that this information could be entered in advance. At the time of shipment, the items can be identified, quickly, easily and accurately, (by scanning their unique barcoded identifiers). With that information, SageData's BassetPro system can easily generate the detailed listing required for customs clearance. Fast, Easy and Accurate. Customs delays are reduced. The equipment arrives on time. Surveys are completed on time. Our client's clients are happy.

For further information contactSageData.

September 1, 2006