Australian Customs web system experiencing problems
A Web-based system designed to make Customs interactions between Australia's government and importers and exporters paperless has experienced glitches since its launch Oct. 12.
Australia's Customs Web site (http://www.customs.gov.au ) offers near-daily updates of the situation. On Wednesday, the site reported that cargo clearances were showing up on the government system, called the Integrated Cargo System, but not on stevedoring companies' individual systems. Other problems have plagued electronic data interchange functions.
ICS was initially implemented July 5, but the Australian government allowed importers and exporters three months to transition their business practices, software and staff. Aside from efficiency gains, the system is intended to help the government assess freight risk.