us customs at JFK airport

[rAJJIN]

International mail prototype tested at JFK


New technology is changing the way Customs tackles international mail, enhancing the agency's targeting capabilities, and providing a new enforcement tool to personnel on high alert since September 11.

"Single Administrative Message for Postal Enterprises (SAMPLE)/Customs Pre-Advisory System (CPAS) is a step in the right direction for international mail," says Ralph Pisani, Assistant Branch Chief at the JFK International Mail Branch. "This system lets inspectors use risk management in processing large volumes of mail."


Fifty-five percent of the international mail volume comes in at JFK, so the location was the logical place to prototype the system. SAMPLE allows for the transmission of data electronically from overseas and downloads information to a PC using an internet-based system. During this prototype phase, Canada, Finland, and the United Kingdom are sending live data and inspectors are reviewing it to distinguish between high risk and low risk packages.


Customs will also be able to manage people and resources more effectively. In the past, inspectors had no way of knowing when and how much mail would arrive in the United States. The new system provides inspectors with that critical information.


The European Union (EU) is providing funding and the SAMPLE Group is working with the United Postal Union (UPU) and the World Customs Organization (WCO) to develop international standards needed to make this system work. SAMPLE designed a prototype system that any postal administration can use with minor adaptations.


"If this is successful at JFK, it can be expanded to other large international mail sites," says Philip Warker, Program Manager for International Mail, Trade Programs, Office of Field Operations. "Germany, France, the Netherlands, and Hong Kong have also expressed interest in this system. Eventually we are hoping this will be a part of the ACE system as well."