The Customs Department will be transitioning to a modernised and improved version of the Customs Automated Processing System (CAPS) beginning May 25.

Commissioner of Customs, Wade N. Smith, while speaking on the importance of evolving the CAPS system stated that as technology improves the aim is to ensure that this application remains on the cutting edge thus offering stakeholders the most user-friendly solution available.

According to Mr. Smith, the new features incorporated include a new background, updated CAPS logo, new login box design, and new real estate to show important messages to traders. Additionally, support for more internal browsers will be added, as CAPS was initially designed solely for Internet Explorer 8.

The Commissioner said, “The new user interface is designed for Microsoft Edge and any other browsers that support chromium including Google Chrome—the most used browser on the internet.”

He explained that the new CAPS responsive design makes it compatible with a wider selection of screen sizes enabling it to adjust to smaller screen sizes such as smart phones and tablets. This, he said, will benefit the importers by making CAPS more accessible on more devices.

Mr. Smith added, “The new and improved CAPS will also enable internal linkages of carrier’s manifest with importers, thus reducing processing time.  This intuitive design is not only user friendly; it provides a wide range of options to expedite the submissions and processing of entries.”

To accommodate this system upgrade, effective Friday, May 21 at 4:00 p.m., all declarants utilising the CAPS trader declaration will be asked to make entry submissions manually until Tuesday, May 25 at 8:30 a.m.

The Customs Department is committed to serving the Government and the public with professionalism, fairness and integrity by providing quality service, maximising the collection of revenue, protecting the BVI’s territorial borders and facilitating legitimate trade efficiently, effectively and economically in order to safeguard the well-being and security of the Territory.