Although not yet in general use, development of the app is moving forward and will be the future of ATA carnets.
In 2022, Dynamic helped to lead the development of digital ATA carnets, by carrying out a practical trial of the UK’s first eATA carnet. The US arm of our group, Rock-it Cargo, have now followed suit.
They were recently chosen to spearhead digital ATA carnet use in the US. Unique items were taken on a paper free journey, a set of microphones designed by Perry Meek, to be used at the TPi Awards Ceremony in London.
This is one of the live events sector’s biggest nights, with every piece of equipment needing to arrive on time.
A Smooth Operation
Preparing for the eATA carnet test was a cooperative task, involving US Customs & Border Protection and the ICC’s World Chamber Federation.
With details agreed, the cased microphones were ready for their journey. Hand carried through John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York, for a trip to Heathrow Airport and on to the Evolution Event Centre in London.
The entire process went without a hitch and took electronic carnets a step closer to becoming everyday reality. A change which will benefit many businesses, including the sector which had a great time in London.
Supporting Live Events
Most of us either attend live events, or see them on screen. Easy to take for granted the work involved in making them happen and the breadth of skills involved.
TPi Awards highlight people who are well known and those who strive behind the scenes. The riggers, engineers, caterers, specialist rental companies, those who bring design skills, or other knowledge which makes events succeed.
This year’s Favourite Freight Company award went to Rock-it Cargo, because they offer the sector a fantastic service. No relationship to the eATA carnet trial, as important as this will be in continuing to provide good support.
A United States Council for International Business board member summed up the potential of the digital trial. “A crucial and exciting first step, to finally bring the ATA carnet into the 21st century.”
Looking To The Future
ATA carnets allow duty free and tax free temporary export for a vast range of goods. They have served the media and events sectors well for decades, allowing hassle free customs clearance and efficient logistics management.
Disposing of the paper trail can only increase efficiency and allow resources to be focused on other needs. Everyone involved to date has only seen advantages, as Tony Scott, Dynamic’s CEO commented after our trial:
“There are so many advantages, time saving, error reduction, security and the environment, think of the trees we will save!”