FAA Implements 'Known Shipper' Rule
The FAA has increased cargo security measures in the aftermath of British and U.S. air attacks in Afghanistan. Under the new "known shipper" rule, freight forwarders can submit cargo to a passenger airline only if the goods come from a customer that has booked at least 24 shipments with that forwarder since Sept. 1, 1999. In addition, the shipper must have been doing business with the forwarder before Sept. 1, 1999. If the shipper does not meet those definitions,the shipper is considered an "unknown shipper". For "unknown shippers" the forwarder must validate that the customer is a legitimate business. Validation includes a visit to the shipper's premises and a check of the customer's financial records. The rule is to prevent terrorists from placing explosives, chemical or biological materials or other items that constitute weaponry on an aircraft. The rule may impact small business, other occasional shippers, and the forwarder's ability to market to new clients.
http://www.txm.com/news1.htm