ST. LAWRENCE SEAWAY AUTHORITIES PROVIDE INTERNET-BASED SERVICES

ST. LAWRENCE SEAWAY AUTHORITIES PROVIDE INTERNET-BASED SERVICES    The St. Lawrence Seaway authorities have jointly initiated four new business services over the Internet.
   “Designed after extensive consultation with the marine industry, the suite provides a range of applications that will enhance the seaway and Great Lakes as a key transportation artery within North America and gateway to global trade,” said the Cornwall, Ontario-based St. Lawrence Seaway Management Corp., and the Saint Lawrence Seaway Development Corp. in Washington in a statement.
   The new services include:
   * Cost calculator, which allows the user to outline a planned voyage with a few data elements to receive an estimated transit cost based on published rates on Seaway tolls, pilotage fees and government levies.
   * Cargo matching, which provides an online market place for ship owners, operators and agents seeking additional cargoes, and a forum for shippers requesting carrier and agent services.
   * Vessel transit information, which pinpoints vessel movement on the seaway.
   * Online transactions/account information, which allows vessel operators to file pre-clearance requests and transit declarations on line.
   Users can access these Internet-based Seaway services at https://www.greatlakes-seaway.com. The subscription fee for 2002 is Can $1,000.