Integrated Cargo System (ICS) Manuals - Generic

• Introduction - Home
• The ICS Environment
• Elec Communicator Reg'n
  • > Consider Pre-requisites
  • > Obtain Digital Certificates
  • > Download and install cert's
  • > Export Digital Cert & configure the CSI
  • > Self Registation
  • > Further Assistance
  • >Glossary of Terms
• Registration of Clients
• Certificate Maintenance
• Client Overview
• Messaging
• Reference Exports
• Reference Imp. Cargo Clearance
• Reference Imp Cargo Reporting

1) PRE-REQUISITES

If you have chosen to communicate directly with Customs using the ICS, it is important that you have considered the following prior to beginning the registration process described in this module:


* communication options:

o Customs Interactive or
o EDI software.
o Bureaus


*Computer capability. You must have the appropriate computer capacity to electronically communicate with Customs:

o for Customs Interactive (access via the Internet) you will need an internet connection, Internet Explorer 5.5 (Service Pack 2) or better, Windows XP or 2000, and a computer capable of running this software.
o for EDI access, each EDI software package will have its own system requirements. You should speak to your provider if you have any questions.

NOTE FOR APPLE USERS : It is not possible to connect natively to the ICS using OS X. A workaround for OS X users who wish to access the Customs Interactive is to use Microsoft's Virtual PC for Mac. This product emulates Windows XP on a Macintosh desk or laptop, allowing OS X users to access the ICS.

Tip: if you have chosen to use a third party (eg, bureau service), your service provider will register you and will communicate with Customs on your behalf.

CUSTOMS INTERACTIVE

Customs interactive will be most suitable for:

. Small to medium sized businesss with low volumes of transactions

. Larger business that want a backup of their EDI software

. Clients who wish to view the status of their cargo



To access a simulation of the Customs Interactive, go to the 'Customs Interactive Simulation'. Go to : http://itools.customs.gov.au/simulation/default.php


ELECTRONIC DATA INTERCHANGE (EDI)

Electronic data interchange (EDI) is a class of industry specific message formats used in electronic commerce. Customs Software Developers Guide details the messaging standards, specifications and the rules being applied by Customs to messages used by the ICS. there are many EDI software packages commercially available to industry.

Those clients that arrange to purchase their own software through a software developer should seek advice on appropriate connection options either from the software developer or Customs.

To access the ICS using EDI, you will require:

. Appropriate internet access to support your messaging. You may need to enhance your internet capability or explore other carrier options.

. An EDI software package (which can be purchased off the shelf, or specifically developed to suit your business needs).




FURTHER ASSISTANCE
. general information about reporting requirements is available from www.customs.gov.au (follow the links to Cargo Support)

. fact sheets about the requirements for importers, exporters and the trading community are available from the Cargo Support website go to www.customs.gov.au/site/page.cfm?u=4916

. a list of software developers is available from www.customs.gov.au (follow the links to Cargo Support, then Service Providers, then Software Developers Contact List)

. In the event of a system outage, the Business Continuity Plan (BCP) will take effect. To read either the imports or exports BCP, go to www.customs.gov.au (follow the links to Cargo Support, then business Continuity Plan.