In The News

Next-gen FAST cards have RFID built-in

OTTAWA -- New 'Generation 2' FAST cards will soon be mailed to all current FAST cardholders.

The cards are expected to arrive between December 2008 and summer of 2009.

The Generation 2 card is equipped with radio frequency identification (RFID) technology, which enables the transmission of identification data from a distance.

Customs officers will be able to view driver information as a truck entering the U.S. approaches the primary inspection line at a border crossing. Entry into Canada will be similar to the current process.

Trucking lobby groups such as the B.C. Trucking Association are encouraging carriers, their drivers, and owner-ops to ensure beforehand that their local FAST Enrollment Centre has up-to-date information.

US Customs and the Canadian Border Services Agency have not yet determined how they will handle the old FAST cards, notes BCTA.

The agencies are deciding whether drivers can simply toss the cars or hand them in.