Government Delays Cargo Security Rules

The Department of Homeland Security said Thursday it delayed new security rules for most cargo shippers because the government must adapt its computer software.

The delay was posted in the Federal Register on March 4.

The new cargo rules require electronic manifests identifying freight shipped by truck, rail, plane and ship to be sent to Customs officials before the goods reach the border.

The rules were supposed to go into effect on Thursday, but a Homeland official said it would soon announce when the rules for truck and rail cargo would take effect, the Associated Press reported.

Air cargo carriers now have three separate deadlines — in August, October and December — depending on which airports they fly in and out of.

However, the rules were implemented for nearly all container ships on Thursday. Homeland Security told AP 90% already send their manifests voluntarily.