The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) announced August 14 it would be making changes to its Certified Cargo Screening Program for products shipped via air.

After October 31, 2023, air cargo shipments that previously qualified as Impractical to Screen (ITS) will be required to be accepted into the CCSP, or must be screened by the air carrier. The TSA said it will work with program participants so they can carry out security checks on air cargo shipments before they are accepted by an air carrier, so long as they abide by the government’s chain-of-custody requirements, reducing the need for additional security screenings.

On June 30, 2021, the TSA passed a mandate requiring all air cargo originating in the U.S. that is destined for international locations to be screened or secured before the products are loaded onto aircraft, in order to address potential aviation threats.

The TSA has begun encouraging manufacturers, indirect air carriers, warehouses, shippers and distribution centers to apply for the Certified Cargo Screening Program and become a member of the Certified Cargo Screening Facility. This will allow businesses to assemble, pack, secure and tender all of their cargo for air transportation in a secure manner that requires no additional security screenings by the TSA.

“The Certified Cargo Screening Program ensures that air cargo moves more quickly and securely through the supply chain,” said TSA executive director for Air Cargo John Beckius.