Trade and Cargo Security
Trade and Cargo Security
Photo Credit: USA Corps of Engineeres
“How to Conduct an Adversarial Vulnerability Assessment.”
Citation: Johnson, Roger G. “How to Conduct an Adversarial Vulnerability Assessment.” Vulnerability Assessment Team. Los Alamos National Laboratory. Los Alamos, New Mexico. April, 2006.
(Vulnerability Assesment Team now located at Argonne National Laboratory's Nuclear Engineering Division, UChicago, Illinois)
Abstract: A PowerPoint presentation on how the VAT tries to defeat and assesses security devices for shipping containers.
“Assessment of U.S. Efforts to Secure the Global Supply Chain”
Citation: Majority and Minority Staffs of the Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations. “Assessment of U.S. Efforts to Secure the Global Supply Chain” Majority and Minority Staffs of the Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations. United States Senate. Washington, DC. 2006. http://levin.senate.gov/newsroom/supporting/2006/REPORT%20Securing%20Global%20Supply%20Chain.pdf
Abstract: Since early 2003, the United States Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations (PSI or the Subcommittee) has conducted an oversight investigation into U.S. Government programs designed to secure the global supply chain. This report provides an unvarnished assessment of the state of global supply chain security. The Subcommittee staffs findings are troubling. In short, Americas supply chain security remains vulnerable to the proverbial Trojan Horse - Americas enemies could compromise the global supply chain to smuggle a Weapon of Mass Destruction (WMD), or even terrorists, into this country. These frightening scenarios are not the work of Hollywood writers. Last year, on two separate occasions, dozens of Chinese immigrants were smuggled through the Port of Hong Kong into Los Angeles using maritime shipping containers. These incidents, coupled with similar episodes abroad, demonstrate the vulnerability of the global supply chain. The 9/11 Commission confirmed these vulnerabilities, stating: opportunities to do harm are as great, or greater, in maritime or surface transportation.
Assurence of Security in Maritime Supply Chains
Citation: Barnes, Paul and Richard Oloruntoba. "Assurence of Security in Maritime Supply Chains: Conceptual Issues of Vulnerability and Crisis Management." Barnes, Paul and Oloruntoba, Richard (2005) Assurance of Security in Maritime Supply Chains: Conceptual Issues of vulnerability and Crisis Management. Journal of International Management 11(4).
Abstract: This paper suggests that the complexity of interaction between ports, maritime operations and
supply chains create vulnerabilities that require analysis that extends beyond the structured
requirements of these initiatives and creates significant management challenges. Also the
paper highlights the need for enhanced crisis management capabilities within ports as part of a
standard management repertoire and suggests a new classification scheme for mapping
vulnerability within ports and across supply networks. The paper concludes that there is a
need to examine the goodness-of-fit of these security initiatives against business efficiency
and competitiveness, and to consider the training needs for crisis management capabilities that
will allow private and public sector groups involved in global
“Cargo and Supply Chain Security Trends 2005.”
Citation; Eyefortransport. “Cargo and Supply Chain Security Trends 2005.” Eyefortransport. Washington, DC. August, 2005. http://www.eyefortransport.com/cargosecurity05/Report2005.pdf
Abstract: eyefortransport conducted the Cargo and Supply Chain Security survey from July to August 2005, the purpose of which was to determine the areas of security that present the biggest challenges to the transportation & logistics industry, including cargo theft and the threat of terrorism, and which security solutions have either been implemented already or are on the cards for the future.
Canada-United States Cargo Security Project
“Advanced Container Security Device.”
Citation: Homeland Security Advanced Research Projects Agency. “Advanced Container Security Device.” Department of Homeland Security. Homeland Security Advanced Research Projects Agency. Washington, DC. May 7, 2004.
Abstract: The HSARPA Advanced Container Security Device Program is a part of a “Future Smart Container” initiative (a term borrowed with permission from Michael Wolfe, North River Consulting Group) encompassing container security, communications, and data systems for the future. The goal of this program is to develop, field-test, and transition to commercialization, the next-generation of shipping container security devices.
“Assessing Container Security Framework for Measuring Performance of the Global Supply Chain.”
Citation: RAND. “Assessing Container Security Framework for Measuring Performance of the Global Supply Chain.” RAND. Washington, DC. 2004. http://www.rand.org/pubs/research_briefs/RB9095/RAND_RB9095.pdf
Abstract: Since 9/11, several programs have been implemented to improve security of the global supply chain. In reviewing these programs, this paper concludes that supply chain efficiency and security are distinct but interconnected and recommends considering all aspects of supply-chain performance when assessing security measures. Also, programs to improve supply-chain security have focused largely on preventing and deterring terrorist attacks, with little focus on improving the supply chain's fault tolerance or resilience.
“ BOOM BOXES: SHIPPING CONTAINERS AND TERRORISTS.”
Citation: Cohen, Stephen. “ BOOM BOXES: SHIPPING CONTAINERS AND TERRORISTS.” Working Paper 169 . Berkeley Roundtable on the International Economy. University of California, Berkeley. Berkeley, CA. October 13, 2005.
Abstract: This paper discusses the threats that terrorists, using containers, pose to America, and measures to defend – deter and detect. It does not directly address reactions to attacks, what to do, and not do, in the event of an attack. Planning for such eventualities is vitally important. Along with inflicting direct damage, triggering self-inflicted damage, through ill-prepared reactions in an environment of panic, is precisely, the aim of terrorism. Nor does the paper address more fundamental question about over-all defense strategy in an age of rabid terrorists with possible access to Weapons of Mass Destruction.
Citation: France, Mike, and Peter Burrows. “Call it I-Way Robbery.” Business Week. Warren, NJ and San Mateo, CA. April 14, 1997.
Abstract: A Report about organized thieves stealing high-tech gear out of shipping containers.
“Concept of Operations for Testing In-Transit Container Security Enhancements.”
Citation: Applied Physics Laboratory at Johns Hopkins University. “Concept of Operations for Testing In-Transit Container Security Enhancements.” Preliminary Version P.1. Prepared for the Federal Highway Administration, US Department of Transportation. Applied Physics Laboratory. Johns Hopkins University. Washington, DC. May, 2003.
Abstract: There are at least four components of a secure intermodal freight system: assured integrity of container loading and documentation; secure transit; accurate, complete, and timely information about the shipments that is protected from disclosure to unauthorized users; and an adequate government infrastructure that can screen information about container shipments and inspect any container that raises a security concern. This concept of operations (ConOps) focuses on the second component: secure transit. The other components are no less important.
Citation: Stanford Study Group. “Container Security Report.” CISAC Report. Stanford Study Group. Center for International Security and Cooperation. Stanford University. Stanford, CA. January 2003.
Abstract: During the week of August 18–23, 2002, the Center for International Security and Cooperation (CISAC) of the Institute for International Studies (IIS) at Stanford University hosted four summer studies sponsored by the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation. One of these studies, the Container Security study, examined how to apply existing technology and resources most effectively to prevent the transport of illicit nuclear materials for use in terrorist activities by means of international commercial shipping. The Container Security group focused on the detection of nuclear weapons and special nuclear materials (SNMs),1 but it also considered challenges particular to detecting forms of radioactive material that could be used in other types of terrorist attacks, including radiological dispersal devices (RDDs, or “dirty bombs”).
“Securing Maritime Trade: Post 9/11 Maritime Security Initiatives and their Impact on Malaysia.”
Citation: Maritime Institute of Malaysia. “Securing Maritime Trade: Post 9/11 Maritime Security Initiatives and their Impact on Malaysia.” Maritime Institute of Malasia.Kuala Lampur, Malaysia. September, 2004. http://www.mima.gov.my/mima/htmls/papers/pdf/secure-maritime-trade.pdf
Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to look at terrorism-related risks facing maritime trade in general, and to give an overview on how the international community has attempted to address those risks. It also looks briefly at some of the implications the security measures have on Malaysia, and raises some issues that need to be considered and addressed.
“Function Contraband, Organized Crime and the Threat to the Transportation and Supply Chain Function.”
Citation: FIA International Research Limited. “Function Contraband, Organized Crime and the Threat to the Transportation and Supply Chain Function.” FIA International Research Limited. September, 2001.
Abstract: This report details the activities of organized crime in the supply chain including theft and contraband smuggling.
“GreenLane Maritime Cargo Security Act: America Needs a Comprehensive Plan to Improve Security and Maintain Efficiency”
Citation: Murray, Patty. “GreenLane Maritime Cargo Security Act: America Needs a Comprehensive Plan to Improve Security and Maintain Efficiency” United States Senate. Washington, DC.
Abstract: Details about the GreenLane Maritime Cargo Security Act
“GreenLane Maritime Cargo Security Act: Security at Every Step, Protecting America.”
Citation: Murray, Patty, and Susan Collins. “GreenLane Maritime Cargo Security Act: Security at Every Step, Protecting America.” United States Senate. Washington, DC.
Abstract: Summary of the GreenLane Maritime Cargo Security Act
“A Maritime Traffic-Tracking System: Cornerstone of Maritime Homeland Defense.”
Citation: Thomas, Guy. “A Maritime Traffic-Tracking System: Cornerstone of Maritime Homeland Defense.” Naval War College Review , Vol. LVI, No. 4 . United States Naval War College. Newport, RI. Autumn, 2003.
Abstract: This article proposes a system that would provide that tracking capability, as well as a means to meet any related emergency with an appropriate response. This proposal—the result of months of war games, conferences, and working groups dealing with the maritime aspects of homeland security—is intended to be a strawman, a thought starter, a means of generating informed debate on how and why the United States might build a maritime counterpart to the flight-following systems of the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
“National Cargo Security Strategy White Paper.”
Citation: Homeland Security Institute. “National Cargo Security Strategy White Paper.” Homeland Security Institute. Alexandria, VA, December, 2004. http://www.homelandsecurity.org/bulletin/White_Paper_12-09-04_ver__1_8.pdf#search=%22National%20Cargo%20Security%20Strategy%20White%20Paper%20%22
Abstract: This draft White Paper is offered as a starting point for the Cargo Summit discussion, and specifically the development of a DHS cargo strategic plan to support enhanced cargo security across the Department. Based on industry feedback, we expect that this document will be revised and enhanced to support mutual security and trade facilitation goals. The Department of Homeland Security envisions a system for supply chain security that mitigates the evolving terrorist threat and facilitates the free flow of global commerce in order to ensure the physical and economic well being of the United States and its trading partners. In enacting this vision, DHS seeks to bring to bear the collective resources and efforts of all stakeholders, while enhancing the integrity of the supply chain.
“Progress Report of the Electronic Seal Expansion Test.”
Citation: University of Washington. “Progress Report of the Electronic Seal Expansion Test.” University of Washington. Seattle, WA. March 12, 2003.
Abstract: This project is a Field Operational Test (FOT) of a transponder security seal system for marine cargo containers. This project, funded by the USDOT and Washington State DOT, expands on a previous deployment of electronic container seals. The first deployment, also funded by USDOT and WSDOT, was completed in Washington State and British Columbia and tested a disposable, electronic transponder (the eSeal) that replaces the traditional mechanical container door seals. The system included associated hardware, software, and an Internet communications backbone. The eSeal system was evaluated as a tool for increasing the security of containerized cargo movements and for tracking containers both in ports and along roadways throughout the freight supply chain.
“Securing Global Trade Lanes: Container Security: Global Trends, Challenges and Strategies.”
Citation: Bearing Point. “Securing Global Trade Lanes: Container Security: Global Trends, Challenges and Strategies.” Bearing Point. Berlin. July, 2004.
Abstract: A short report about European programs for container security
“Security on the Back Burner.”
Citation: RFID Journal. “Security on the Back Burner.” RFID Journal. Melville, NY. July/August, 2005.
Abstract: This article is about the lack of funds for container tracking but how DHS is pressing ahead with RFID tracking research.
“Satellites Could Help Identify and Track Threats From Sea.”
Citation: IANNOTTA, BEN “Satellites Could Help Identify and Track Threats From Sea.” Space News. SUMMERLAND KEY, FL. August 30, 2004. http://www.space.com/spacenews/archive04/seaarch_083004.html
Abstract: An article about a government project where the U.S. Coast Guard will use a privately owned communications satellite to relay identification information that commercial ships today broadcast at 30-second intervals to one another and to ports as part of an international network called the Automatic Vessel Identification System.
“Starbucks to install cargo security devices to guard against narcotics.”
Citation: Bridas, Ted. “ Starbucks to install cargo security devices to guard against narcotics .” Associated Press. Washington, DC. March 16, 2006. http://english.ohmynews.com/articleview/article_print.asp?menu=c10400&no=279860&rel_no=1&isPrint=print
Abstract: An Associated Press article on Starbucks adopting GE's CommerceGuard tracking system to detect entry into shipping containers containing coffee beans coming from Guatemala to the United States.
“Supply Chain Security Goes Global.”
Citation :Center for Transportation and Logistics. “Supply Chain Security Goes Global.” MIT Center for Transportation and Logistics. Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Cambridge, MA. September, 2005. http://ctl.mit.edu/metadot/index.pl?id=4444
Abstract: An article about statements of Robert Bonner, Commissioner, US Bureau of Customs and Border Protection about measures introduced in the United States since the 9/11 terrorist attacks have made supply chains more secure, now this effort is moving to a global level with an initiative to implement security standards worldwide.
“Washington State Department of Transportation, Northwest Trade Corridor Seal Evaluation Final Test Report.”
Citation: TransCore. “Washington State Department of Transportation, Northwest Trade Corridor Seal Evaluation Final Test Report.” TransCore. San Diego, CA. August 10, 2001.
Abstract : TransCore has evaluated electronic container seals for applicability to container tracking for the Northwest Trade Corridor. Container tracking for this project requires automatic detection and positive identification of the container at point of origin (Ports of Seattle and Tacoma), international border crossing (Blaine, WA) and intermediate points alongthe route (I-5 at Bow Hill, WA and at an intersection approaching Blaine border crossing).
Other Articles
Navis Introduces Navis™ RTLS Solutions
Citation: Business Wire, CA. June 26, 2007.
India to join container security initiative
Citation: NDTV.com, India. June 24, 2007.
WhereNet, Identec Solutions Offer GPS Tracking
Citation: RFID Journal, NY. Jun 18, 2007.
State of the Art Container Security Network Installed to Help Protect Cargo at Florida's Port Everglades."
Citation: Business Wire, CA. June 13, 2007.
Shanghai, Savannah ports to test new tracking program
Citation: Savannah Morning News, GA. June 12, 2007.
Cargo security is not perfect, but has improved
Citation: Police News, CA. June 7, 2007.
International Cargo Security Council Annual Conference
Citation: DC Velocity, MA. June 6, 2007.
Savi Networks and Emprevi 'Go Live' With Automated Network That Secures and Tracks Colombian Cargo Shipments.
Citation: Earthtimes.org June 27, 2007.
Complete Cargo Inspection and Port Security Grants Do Not Promote Homeland Security
Citation: Alane Kochems and James Jay Carafano. The Heritage Foundation, 03 April 2006
Constructing a logistics tracking system for preventing smuggling risk of transit containers
Citation:MC Tsai. Transportation Research Part A: Policy and Practice, 2006.
Detector Requirements to Curb Nuclear Smuggling
Citation: CN Smuggling llnl.gov November 14, 2001
Iran and the Palestinian War Against Israel: Implications of the Karine-A Affair
Citation: M Rubin, PA Smuggling. dushkin.com February 26, 2002.
Detection of cocaine in cargo containers by high-volume vapor sampling: field test at Port of Miami
Citation: P Neudorfl, M Hupe, P Pilon, AH Lawrence, G Drolet. Proc SPIE-Int Soc Opt Eng, 1997.
International Cargo Security Reports
