LIFT-OFF FOR VENUS

DATE: FRIDAY 24 OCTOBER 2008

Ports of Auckland has completed its first full ship discharge using new barcode technology to fast-track the processing of imported vehicles.

Last week 557 vehicles were unloaded from the ship Magic Wave and successfully processed by VENUS – Ports of Auckland’s new Vehicle Entry User System technology.

Ports of Auckland Managing Director Jens Madsen said VENUS, a paperless system for tracking vehicles, would help cut through red tape.

“Truck drivers can now turn up to collect vehicles with only a pin number, instead of three pieces of paper,” said Mr Madsen.

“VENUS incorporates the Customs, MAF and bill payment clearances on a web-based service. This means fewer hold-ups from incomplete paperwork and faster vehicle turnarounds – a more efficient and speedier supply chain for imported vehicles.”

Hand-held barcode readers are used to identify and track the vehicles.

The Magic Wave was operated by Kiwi Car Carriers. Commercial Manager Neil Lay Yee said he was pleased to see VENUS up and running.

“I’d like to commend Ports of Auckland on this innovative application of technology,” Mr Lay Yee said.

“VENUS will make life easier for everyone involved in the imported vehicle supply chain – importers, road carriers and government agencies.”
 

For further information contact:

Catherine Etheredge
Senior Manager – Communications
P: 09 309 1255
E: etheredgec@poal.co.nz
M: 027 477 7501

Megan Hopkins-Stone
Communications Advisor
P: 09 309 1255
E: hopkins-stonem@poal.co.nz
M: 027 221 7126