The government will trial new software at the UK border, aiming to make it easier for border staff to identify the contents of containers.

The plans for the software comes following trials, using smart seals that are able to detect unauthorised access to freight, and smart containers which transmit real-time data, such as temperature changes. The trials found that by using the data, border staff could reduce the time spent on determining which goods to check.

Speaking at the London Chamber of Commerce today (5 December), Cabinet Office minister of state Lucy Neville-Rolfe said the government is now going further, trialling new software and technologies to reduce delays at the border, as well as improving the way the UK imports and exports goods.

“Technological and software innovations will make our border unmatched by the rest of the world,” she said. “Industry is an essential part of the picture, which is why we will continue to work with companies to ensure our trading infrastructure supports them and enables the UK to trade in a safer and more strategic way.”

In August 2023, the government published an updated Border Target Operating model, focused on making smart use of data and technology to make trading more efficient, including removing duplication and reducing the amount of data and paperwork needed.

https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366562153/Government-to-trial-new-border-tech