Southampton is one of the UK’s most dynamic and versatile ports and is increasingly dependent on Information Technology and sophisticated communications. A fast flow of information is essential for operational efficiency and management of the logistics chain.

SPIN integrates and connects the multiplicity of systems operated by the large number of organisations, which make up the working port community. It allows information to pass between individual users and where appropriate enables common information to be shared for control of freight movement.

SPIN is one of the most advanced port networks in the world. Based on Internet technology and Windows presentation the network allows users to monitor movement of imports and exports through the port.

The development of the SPIN Web site www.southamptonspin.net has enhanced this capability and enabled access to a wide range of data covering every aspect of the port operation.

The inventory systems at the heart of the community provide a focus for comprehensive information on the status of units and consignments as they progress through the port. The facilities also provide greater security in receipt and delivery of goods.

There is strong emphasis on electronic transfer of information from one computer system to another. This reduces the need to hand key information and ultimately will eliminate the production of paper documents.

The Paperless Port

The objective of SPIN is to streamline procedures and create a totally paperless environment.

• Typically, the source of data is a shipping line clerk in the Far East who enters booking data to the carriers system. This creates a vessel manifest which is then electronically transferred to SPIN.
• SPIN transfers copies of the information to various administrative bodies including HM Customs & Excise, HM Customs Anti Smuggling Team, the Port Health Authority and Trading Standards. This gives them manifest information in a format which they can process electronically.
• Goods required for examination are subsequently notified to SPIN and messages inform all parties concerned. At the same time the status of the goods is updated on the database.
• When shipping lines or Agents require goods to be moved inland for clearance the SPIN system provides a paperless procedure including onward transmission of data to the inland clearance site.
• Similar procedures allow release of goods to de-consolidation depots.
• Under Customs Freight Simplified Procedures (CFSP) a paperless Simplified Frontier Declaration through SPIN will allow HM Customs release of the goods.
• Within SPIN manifests are automatically written off for Customs purposes following a successful Customs entry, Removal request, CFSP declaration or Transhipment request.
• Electronic input of Export booking information allows Export clearance from HM Customs and provides “Executive Information” to the terminal or stevedore.

World Wide Connections

Through CNSNet and the SPIN Web site users have global access to data that is essential to efficient port operations.

• Bayplans and manifests are received from shipping lines’ central computers before vessels arrive in the port. Updated bayplans are transmitted as the vessel sails.
• Bayplans are exchanged with other ports in the trade cycle.
• Status messages are sent to shipping lines’ global tracking systems.
• Manifest information is passed to inland depots in advance of the physical movement.
• SPIN connections can be made to corporate networks allowing world-wide access to the community facilities from any node in that network.
• SPIN users have free email facilities within the port community and with any other user on the CNS network. This facility can be extended to give email worldwide.
• SPIN is backed by CNS ’ comprehensive global EDI service.

The Port Community System is at the heart of efficient port operations. Today the SPIN system keeps the Port of Southampton at the forefront of Information Technology, enabling all port users to provide a sophisticated and competitive service.

For further information please contact:
Sue Garstone
Email: sue.garstone@southamptonspin.net