The Bahamas Customs Department is starting the process of transitioning its Grand Bahama operations to Click2Clear effective September 1. The transition has become even more critical given the recent system failure of its AS400 - Customs Automated System (CAS) legacy system.

The Customs Department wishes to offer sincerest apologies to all stakeholders that have been significantly inconvenienced by the recent failure of CAS. The system began experiencing intermittent issues in February 2021, but a critical failure in June rendered the system inoperable. Recent assessments determined that the legacy system is beyond repair and will therefore be phased out and replaced by the electronic single window, Click2Clear platform.

For the last 30 years, the Department of Customs has relied on CAS. Currently, the entry checking and releasing unit systems are being handled manually and the department has officers working around the clock to ensure accurate inputs are maintained and processed.

In preparation of the upcoming transition, the Customs Department will continue to seek input from stakeholders in order to ensure a smooth transition. In keeping with its mandate to provide quality service to the Bahamian public, the Department will offer additional training and encourages all stakeholders to schedule training dates. The Comptroller of Customs, Dr Geannine R. Moss, and her team will be in Grand Bahama next week to meet with the stakeholders.

The feedback received over the past weeks and months as preparation has begun for the transition to Click2Clear in Grand Bahama has resulted in changes being made to ensure ease of use for all stakeholders. The next month and half will prove to be critical not only to the department but to all stakeholders on the island of Grand Bahama in preparation for the full transition on September 1.

The facilitation of legitimate trade is a key pillar of the Bahamas Customs Department. This transition reaffirms that commitment in the rendering of service to all stakeholders, particularly those in Grand Bahama.

The Department again apologizes for any inconvenience that has been caused. Persons experiencing difficulties may contact the help desk at 602-9419 or 602-9530.