Air cargo security – general

All cargo which is to be carried on a flight originating in the UK must be subject to a security procedure to ensure that it does not contain a prohibited article such as an incendiary or explosive device. The cargo can either be screened using a number of different techniques by a regulated agent to a standard sufficient reasonably to ensure that it does not contain a prohibited article, or else be securely originated by a known consignor.

Known consignors

Known consignors are authorised by the DfT to ship cargo as secure. They do this by either “making” or distributing the cargo in such a manner that they can provide assurance that their practices are secure. Known consignors are validated by DfT accredited validators annually.

Further information is available and applications may be made at current.cargovalidations@dft.gsi.gov.uk.

• Guidance for known consignors

If you are an authorised user and wish to check a UAI, visit:

• Known Consignor Scheme website.

Account consignors

UK regulated agents may not designate new account consignors. However, account consignors designated before 10 December 2010 may still ship account consignor material until December 2011. From December, consignors may wish to become a known consignor. Cargo from account consignors may only be carried on all-cargo aircraft.

• Department for Transport Regulated Agents and In-flight Suppliers