Press Releases
01/13/2003
Horizon Services Group Completes Implementation of AMS Filing Solution for New 24-Hour Rule
DALLAS, Jan. 13, 2003-Horizon Services Group, the leading developer of logistics management technology for ocean shipping, has completed implementation of a system for submitting U. S. Customs AMS data in compliance with the new 24-hour filing rule.
The new EDI standards required by Customs and a new web-based data interface were integrated into Horizon Service’s existing AMS system. The upgrades are designed to help carriers and NVOCCs of any size comply with the new rule. Horizon is the first third-party service provider certified by U.S. Customs to meet the new criteria.
“Our new AMS solution makes Horizon Services one of only a handful of companies that can act as a Customs third-party AMS service provider,” said Rick Kessler, chief operating officer of Horizon Services Group. “Our system is unique in that it can handle the requirements of any company, from the largest carrier to the smallest ocean transport intermediary.”
Horizon technology facilitates a direct EDI feed out of large in-house systems but also supports small to mid-size carriers and NVOCCs by providing a web interface for entering shipment data into AMS.
Horizon relied on its long established relationship with U.S. Customs during the upgrade process. Leveraging its experience, the company has been able to facilitate a smooth transition for CSX Lines to comply with the new 24-hour rule and will offer its solutions to other companies to speed compliance.
“The short timeline for compliance really put the industry in a tough spot, but no one can turn their backs on the need for better maritime security in today’s world,” said Duncan Wright, strategic sales and development, for Horizon Services.
The 24-hour AMS rule requires all ocean carriers or NVOCCs to present a complete cargo manifest to U.S. Customs at least 24 hours prior to cargo loading on vessels calling at a U.S. port. The rule extends to imports as well as to cargo remaining on board the vessel for subsequent discharge at a non-U.S. port.
About Horizon Services Group
Horizon Services Group was formed as a wholly-owned subsidiary of CSX Lines in 2001. Horizon Services manages all CSX Lines' systems, from back-office operations to customer relationship management applications. In 2002, the company expanded sales of its IT applications for managing the complex processes associated with ocean shipping and intermodal logistics to companies active in all aspects of ocean shipping logistics.
