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Container security initiative

Siemens and PSA have started the Container Security Initiative in Port of Antwerp. Cooperation will open 'Secure Cargo Corridors' with other leading ports based on the CommerceGuard Container Security Solution

Siemens Belgium announced that it has launched a joint initiative with Hesse-Noord Natie, a subsidiary of the Singapore-based leading port terminal operator PSA, to improve security and integrity of containers handled by PSA terminals in the Port of Antwerp. The CommerceGuard Container Security solution is installed and maintained by the Security Systems division of Siemens Building Technologies and provide the infrastructure to verify unauthorised opening of containers during transport and to access status data. This step will make Antwerp the first European port in the worldwide 'Secure Cargo Corridors' network, which is presently built-up by 'CommerceGuard AB', a joint venture of Siemens, GE and Mitsubishi.

The world-wide container trade moves more than 6 million containers annually through Antwerp. The RFID-based CommerceGuard solution features a container security device (CSD) that magnetically adheres to the inside of an international cargo container and registers any opening of the container door. Fixed and handheld readers record its status in a database that can be accessed by authorised importers, shippers, logistics service providers and government officials anywhere in the world. It is expected that this technology will expedite and accelerate the passage of cargo at seaports. Additionally, the CommerceGuard solution allows the generation, storage and transfer of data, like electronic container ID, load ID or time of terminal entry throughout the entire supply chain.

The CommerceGuard AB Joint Venture of Siemens, GE and Mitsubishi, which started several months ago, is presently setting up reader infrastructure in major ports worldwide in order to support first exporter demands for container security and to establish a network of 'Secure Cargo Corridors' which provide exporters and freight forwarders with secured 'RFID-Highways' between key ports and terminals. Future 'Green Lane' implementation or CT-PAT enhancements will be able to make use of the 'Secure Corridors'.

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