TSA Security Requirement

_{Posted: 25th September 2024}

Virgin Atlantic Cargo update on new TSA security requirements for cargo to or transiting the United States:

The TSA has issued new security requirements for cargo shipments on passenger carriers travelling to or through the United States and originating in one of the countries designated by the TSA (this list can be found in the link below). These requirements mandate that cargo may only be tendered from shippers with whom the forwarder has an Established Business Relationship (EBR).

To comply with this requirement, effective 25 September 2024, Virgin Atlantic Cargo forwarding partners must confirm they have verified all shipments are from shippers that meet the new EBR criteria as detailed below.

Please review the below information carefully and provide the required confirmation from 25 September 2024 to avoid shipments being refused.

With each master waybill (MAWB), the forwarder must provide confirmation it has verified that all shippers associated with the MAWB meet at least one of the following EBR criteria:

1. The shipper is a known consignor under the security programme of a national authority

2. The shipper has an account with the forwarder that was established prior to 2 September 2024 and contains at least one of the following:

a. The shipper’s shipping and billing address and documented payment or credit history

b. Documented sales history, including any relevant contacts or activities

c. Other documented business correspondence or records

3. For shippers who became customers after 2 September 2024, the forwarder must have records of the following information:

a. A business or corporate registration certification, licence, or record

b. Billing or corporate information including name, address, phone number and email

c. Contact information for an authorised point of contact for the account

d. Payment information (e.g., a corporate credit card)

e. A signed contract between the shipper and the forwarder

To meet this requirement, forwarders must submit their confirmation using the below Freight Forwarder Declaration form and this form must accompany the MAWB.

From 25 September 2024, shipments tendered to Virgin Atlantic Cargo without the required EBR confirmation will be refused transport, in accordance with these new TSA regulations.

For shipments originating in countries not listed, there is no current requirement to meet the Established Business Relationship (EBR) criteria and therefore no requirement to complete the Freight Forwarder Declaration.

Thank you for your attention to this important security update. We value your business and are committed to keeping you informed on any new requirements.

If you have any questions please contact your local Virgin representative.

Virgin Atlantic Cargo