Cargo 2000, the air cargo industry quality standard, is raising its quality management system to the highest level through the launch of a new classification system for membership. For service providers and customers, this means an increase in the quality of air cargo processes internally and externally. Mattijs ten Brink, Chairman of Cargo 2000, said, 'The ultimate goal is to move air cargo organizations towards the full integration of Cargo 2000 and to increase the value of our program both internally and externally. Our message is clear: partial implementation of any operational plan only delivers partial results. To realize all of the benefits of Cargo 2000, full integration is a necessity.'
 
 Membership Classification confers additional value and quality to its members and the higher the membership level, the greater the rewards, including the use of solid assessment tools, recognition for best-in-class performance, and enhanced profile with shippers that will use Cargo 2000 as part of their supplier selection process.
 
 The new Cargo 2000 Membership Classification consists of four levels based on a points system that objectively measures a company's integration of Cargo 2000 into its daily business processes:
  • Member (0 to 30 points)
  • Silver (31 to 50 points)
  • Gold (51 to 80)
  • Platinum (81 or more points)
The classification uses measurable and transparent criteria to fairly evaluate individual members. The evaluation matrix consists of three sections, with each section allowing for a score of up to 100 points and carrying a percentage weight: 1. Performance and Integrity (30%) ' This section looks at measured performance such as KPIs, volume of shipments measured and data integrity.
 2. Process/Degree of Implementation (30%) ' This second section examines the level of Cargo 2000 implementation, especially a company that moves beyond the minimum requirements. 3. Contribution to Cargo 2000 Community (40%) ' The third section assesses a company's level of engagement with the broader Cargo 2000 community. In addition, companies that exceed these requirements have the opportunity to achieve bonus points. The audit process will occur outside the standard Cargo 2000 certification process. In order to be classified as Member or higher, a company will need to have been certified as Cargo 2000 Quality Management compliant. Initial category levels for Cargo 2000 members will be established on an individual basis depending on the level of adoption of the Master Operating Plan (MOP). 'We believe all participants have the ability to perform at the highest level. The goal is to ensure Cargo 2000 is used as a thoroughly integrated part of their air cargo organization,' ten Brink said, adding, 'With Cargo 2000 members representing over 70% of the worldwide air cargo market we have a need and a responsibility to lead by example.'