by Mark Oakeshott, Vice President, Global Moving Networks

As we mark the 10^th anniversary of September 11^th , those of us involved in the business of international moving are reminded that the events of that day changed the complexion of the industry forever and resulted in a dramatic increase in the focus placed on the security of our customers' shipments and their personal information.

North American International takes the risks related to transportation of household goods and personal effects very seriously.  We very quickly adopted and complied with the guidelines constructed by the Department of Homeland Security under the C-TPAT program and continue to enhance the requirements that we place upon our origin and destination service providers.

From our perspective, risk management is split into two distinct categories - risks that we can control, and risks that we are unable to predict.

We attack controllable risks, such as prudent compliance with packing and loading standards, effective counseling of transferees by our move coordinators, background checks of employees, close management of our vendor network, and strict control of paperwork required for customs clearance with vigor.  For example, we recently acquired our own customs brokerage business to maintain ownership of sensitive client information "in-house".

In addition, as the approach adopted by U.S. Homeland Security shifts to a more pro-active stance, North American International responds quickly to new legislation such as the Importer Security Filing requirements that demand details of shipments prior to leaving the origin port.  North American International was in compliance with this legislation well in advance of the implementation date.

Our approach also recognizes risks that we are unable to predict.  This year we have had to contend with political upheaval in the Middle East and, of course, the tragedy of the tsunami in Japan.  In these circumstances, we are quickly able to identify shipments at risk through our sophisticated tracking and tracing systems and then take action to mitigate delays.  We also have a network of proven service providers around the world.  These companies are regional experts that are carefully selected in part through their ability to overcome roadblocks and to demonstrate their neutrality in ethnic conflicts.

In this ever changing world, you can rely on North American International to continue to take a prudent approach to risk management.

(credit: "The northAmerican Wrap Up")