One-Stop Shop

In order to process the logistics flow efficiently, we have built high-tech inspection centres at both the Port of Rotterdam and Schiphol International Airport. At the Joint Inspection Center (JIC) at Schiphol Airport and the State Inspection Terminal (S.I.T.) in Rotterdam, control agencies such as the Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority, the Royal Netherlands Marechaussee and the Human Environment and Transport Inspectorate work closely with Dutch Customs to check air cargo at naturally occurring breaks in the logistic flow.

When a Unit Load Device (ULD - an aircraft pallet) is selected for physical inspection, the shipper drives it to the JIC, where it is checked. If necessary, the cargo is unpacked (in the presence of the shipper) and a number of control agencies simultaneously check the control aspects assigned to them. This is done at such speed that the cargo, if it conforms, can continue on its journey with as little delay as possible. For some of the controls, the goods do not even have to be moved from the handling agent's warehouse. This is because some handling agents have their own scanning equipment available. Customs officials then observe the procedure remotely via connected screens. The same set-up applies for containers in the Port of Rotterdam.