Integrated Cargo System (ICS) - Update Accessible with additional web browsers / Performance Statistics

Freight & Trade Alliance (FTA) has received advice from Australian Border Force (ABF) of the trialling of expansion to the web browsers that enable access to the Integrated Cargo System (ICS)

ICS has only been accessible using Internet Explorer(IE).  A browser that is fast becoming obsolete.

FTA has been in regular dialogue with ABF advocating for the ICS to be accessible utilising other web browsers;  specifically Google Chrome and Microsoft Edge.

On behalf of it's members FTA would like to thank the ABF for their continued efforts in progressing this matter to a positive conclusion.

Furthermore ABF have provided the following update on the performance of the ICS 

• There has been a year on year growth of 14% from the 2020 year which is a new record for volumes, surpassing the 2020 Christmas Benchmarks. This suggests that the Christmas peak period, which historically has commenced in September/October may have started.
• July at 8.2 million reports has surpassed the 8.1 million cargo reports received during the December 2020 peak periods.
• These reports have been processed without the additional 5% increase mainframe capacity applied over the Christmas period. Despite the increase in volumes there has been a smoothening of processing volumes over the July period thanks to the assistance of industry which has eased the burden on the system.
• The volumes were caused by changes in behaviours during lockdown periods. It is anticipated that if lockdowns continue or are expanded it will likely further drive up volumes.
• There has been a large increase in the number of consignments per container since the start of the COVID period. This has an increase on system performance requiring additional processing and profiling. The increase in the consignments from China is contributing to this escalation.