Issue 513, March 16, 2006
On February 1, 2006, the German government introduced the Aviation Security Act (Luftsicherheitsgestz). This new security process will impact air export shipments originating in Germany. In order to comply with the new German government regulation, DHL has taken the following initiatives:
- Initiated a licensing procedure for Regulated Agents (RA) and taken steps to maintain that status
- Nominated a central security officer, a central deputy security officer, and local security officers at each DHL location; as a basic requirement for licensing
- Conducted specific and ongoing training for security officers and warehouse staff
- Developed a security program for all branches
- Conducted training and ongoing instruction on improvements or changes to its security program
- Undergone necessary technical installations in the transhipment area (access verification, video monitoring, and alarm systems) of its warehouses
- Increased the number of staff in order to ensure proper operation of the Luftfahrtbundesamt's security control system
- Collection, registration, documentation, and administration of the security declarations made by ‘Known' shippers and the declarations provided by subcontractors
- A great deal of investment has been and will continue to be made in the areas of administration, technology, personnel, and training.
DHL is able to absorb much of the cost associated with the implementation of these mandatory regulations. However, we cannot avoid passing a portion of this cost onto our customers.
Effective April 1, 2006, we will introduce a charge called the "RA fee" in the amount of EUR 6.00 which will be applied under "Due Agent" on the house airway bill for all imports from Germany. This fee applies to both Known and Unknown shippers and it is payable by the party responsible for the German origin charges.
Should additional charges related to unsecured cargo (i.e., no security declaration on file for the shipper or cargo appears to have been manipulated or compromised) be required, DHL will pass the same to the responsible party at cost. These costs are published by the Airline Carriers. If examination is required to classify freight as "Secured," examination services may be performed by either DHL or the airline.
If you require additional information or clarification, please contact your local DHL representative or visit the following link to the English version of the German regulation ( http://www.lba.de/englisch/lba/org/b/b6/aviation/RegA/RegA.htm).
Your continued support and understanding regarding this situation is very much appreciated.
