Customs Testing New Cargo Entry Process – This week, Customs and Border Protection announced a pilot program that will simplify the U.S. customs entry process for ocean cargo. The program focuses on obtaining entry information earlier in the process, similar to the recently implemented Importer Security Filing (ISF). The pilot project is limited to importers with Tier II or III C-TPAT status. In the future, Customs anticipates expanding the program to include air cargo.
Read more from the JOC.
Maersk’s Launching New Class of Mega-Vessels in 2013 – The world’s biggest container shipping line, Maersk, is slated to launch 20 ships of the new Triple-E class over the next 4 years. With a capacity of 18,000 TEUs each, the new class of vessels will be the largest container ships on the water. The ships are being built in South Korea at a cost of $190 million per vessel. The new fleet is designed to consume less fuel and emit less carbon emissions than container ships now in service.
Read more from Reuters.
Apps Make an Impact in Supply Chain Management (SCM) – An increasing number of supply chain managers are using their handheld smartphones and mobile applications to help in their day-to-day tasks. Application functions that include inventory control, tracking, messaging and timekeeping are proving very useful in the supply chain. With the growing amount of handheld technology and mobile software, SCM apps will improve the ability to manage supply chains from virtually anywhere and make it possible to conduct operational analysis from “the palm of your hand.”
Read more from Supply Chain Digital.
50% of Multinational Companies Choose Green Suppliers – According to a study conducted by the Carbon Trust Advisory (CTA), half of multinational companies plan to select suppliers based on their CO2 emissions. The research also states that approximately one-third of suppliers are in danger of losing existing business due to poor environmental performance. About 60% of multinationals are willing to pay more for suppliers with low emissions to decrease their overall carbon footprint.
Read more from Environmental Leader.
