Non-Intrusive Cargo Scanning Solutions

Cargo Scanning Operations

We operate the full spectrum of Non-Intrusive Inspection systems — from high-throughput gantry and portal scanners capable of processing up to 200 scans per hour, to pallet scanners for unit-load screening and handheld backscatter devices for targeted spot-checks. Our scanning workflow is seamless: vehicles enter the scanning zone, images are captured using X-ray or gamma-ray technology, and trained analysts review results in real-time to make release or referral decisions. We deploy across seaports, land borders, and airports, adapting our operations to the unique demands of each environment.

Equipment Installation & Commissioning

End-to-end deployment of cargo scanning systems from initial site survey through to operational handover. Our scope includes civil works and foundation construction, radiation shielding design, electrical and IT infrastructure, equipment assembly, detector calibration, beam alignment verification, and acceptance testing. We manage the full regulatory process including radiation protection licensing and safety compliance. Typical installations span 3–6 months depending on site conditions, with mobile systems deployed faster where rapid capability is needed.

Maintenance & Spare Parts

Our maintenance programmes keep scanners operating at peak performance with minimal downtime — critical at busy ports where a single day offline can cost tens of thousands of dollars in demurrage and delays. We provide scheduled preventive maintenance including linear accelerator servicing, detector array recalibration, radiation dose verification, and software updates, alongside rapid corrective response for emergency repairs. Our spare parts supply chain covers specialised components such as LINAC tubes, scintillation detectors, and high-voltage assemblies, with standby engineers on-site to ensure maximum uptime.

Image Analysis

Our expert image analysts are the critical decision-makers in the scanning process. Before reviewing each scan, analysts study the accompanying documentation — commercial invoices, packing lists, HS codes, and manifest data — to understand what the cargo should contain. They then examine the X-ray image for density patterns, material composition, packaging arrangement, and any anomalies that suggest misdeclared goods, hidden compartments, or contraband. This rigorous process combines commodity knowledge, threat pattern recognition, and regulatory literacy to determine whether cargo is released or referred for physical examination.

Trade Facilitation & Compliance

Non-Intrusive Inspection is a cornerstone of modern trade facilitation, aligned with the WCO SAFE Framework of Standards. Our scanning services enable customs authorities to clear compliant cargo faster — reducing port dwell time by days and eliminating costly demurrage and detention charges for traders. At the same time, our systems protect national revenue by detecting undervalued, misdeclared, and smuggled goods. We support risk-based targeting that allows low-risk shipments to move efficiently while concentrating inspection resources on high-risk consignments, supporting both the AfCFTA agenda and Ghana's revenue mobilisation objectives.

Consultation & Advisory Services

With over 22 years of hands-on experience and partnerships with all major scanner manufacturers, we provide strategic advisory on selecting the right scanning technology for your specific operational needs — whether at seaports, land borders, or airports. Our consultants assess throughput requirements, threat profiles, site infrastructure, and budget to recommend solutions that close gaps in revenue mobilisation, trade facilitation, and national security. From procurement planning and tender specification to WCO-aligned deployment strategies, we help clients make informed decisions that maximise return on investment.

Training & Capacity Building

Comprehensive training programmes in cargo scanning operations and image analysis for customs officers, port authorities, and security personnel. Our curriculum covers scanner technology fundamentals, radiation safety protocols, image acquisition principles, and decision-making techniques — equipping operators to identify anomalies, detect contraband, and verify cargo declarations with confidence. Training is delivered through classroom instruction, hands-on practicals, and computer-based simulation, building the competencies required by the WCO for effective NII deployment.

Custom Solution Development

We design and build bespoke software systems that work across any and all scanner manufacturers — solving the interoperability challenge that organisations face when operating equipment from multiple OEMs. Our flagship product, the Centralized Image Analysis System (CIAS), unifies images and data from scanners by Nuctech, AS&E, HLX TC-Scan, Smiths Detection, and others onto a single platform. CIAS converts raw images into standardised UFF 2.0 format, interfaces directly with Customs Management Systems for automated data exchange, and enables centralised remote image analysis with smart queuing, multi-layered audit functions, and comprehensive reporting — all over a secure wide area network. Built on a modular architecture, our solutions integrate with existing equipment and can be deployed at any location, granting oversight agencies real-time access to enhance the integrity of the inspection process.

Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NRA)

Established by the Nuclear Regulatory Authority Act, 2015 (Act 895), the NRA is Ghana's principal authority for all civilian uses of nuclear and radioactive materials. For our operations, the NRA grants import permits for all X-ray scanning equipment, authorises installation sites, and maintains ongoing regulatory oversight of our radiation-generating systems — including the high-energy LINAC sources used in transmission scanning.

Every radiation source entering Ghana requires an NRA import permit. Operators must hold valid licences for possession, use, transport, and storage of all radiation-generating equipment under Act 895.

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

Under the Environmental Protection Agency Act, 1994 (Act 490) and the Environmental Assessment Regulations, 1999 (LI 1652), the EPA oversees the environmental impact of scanner installations. All new scanning facilities undergo Environmental Impact Assessment screening, and operating sites submit Environmental Management Plans every three years with annual compliance inspections.

The EPA coordinates with the Radiation Protection Board to assess radiation-related environmental effects of scanning equipment, ensuring emissions, noise, and air quality meet national standards (GS 1212, GS 1236, GS 1222).

Radiation Protection Institute (RPI)

Operating under the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC), the RPI provides personal dosimetry monitoring for all our radiation workers. Using Harshaw 6600 TLD systems, the RPI issues TLD badges — both chest-worn for whole-body dose and wrist-worn for extremity dose — measured quarterly through their Secondary Standard Dosimetry Laboratory (SSDL), part of the WHO/IAEA global network.

Following ICRP guidelines: occupational dose limit of 20 mSv/year averaged over 5 years (100 mSv cumulative); public exposure limit of 1 mSv/year. Investigation levels set at 1 mSv/month for Hp(10) whole-body dose and 25 mSv/month for Hp(0.07) extremity dose.

Ghana Link Network Services

Our primary principal partner. Ghana Link Network Services Limited (GLNS) is the sole operator of the Integrated Customs Management System (ICUMS) — Ghana's fully automated, paperless, cloud-based e-customs platform processing all declarations and payments across more than 170 customs locations nationwide.

Incorporated in 2001 and operational since 2003, GLNS partnered with Korea's CUPIA to deliver the UNIPASS solution under a March 2018 agreement with the Ministry of Trade and Industry. Their ISO/IEC 27001:2022 certified infrastructure underpins Ghana's customs modernisation, and NICK TC-SCAN operates as a key subcontractor providing scanning technology expertise within this framework.

Gateway Services Limited

Our subcontractor partner operating within Ghana's destination inspection regime. Gateway Services Limited provides destination inspection services for imported goods, conducting post-shipment verification and physical examinations as part of Ghana's customs compliance framework.

Working within the broader cargo inspection ecosystem alongside BIVAC International, Webb Fontaine, and other licensed inspection companies, Gateway Services collaborates with NICK TC-SCAN to ensure comprehensive scanning coverage at Ghana's ports and border crossings.

Tema (Headquarters)

Western Gate, Tema Port — our main office and primary scanning operations hub at Ghana's busiest seaport.

5.6244° N, 0.0054° W

Kotoka Int'l Airport

Aviation cargo scanning at Ghana's premier international airport, handling air freight inspection and security compliance.

5.5994° N, 0.1737° W

Takoradi Port

Export-focused scanning operations at Ghana's western seaport, ensuring compliance for outbound cargo.

4.8904° N, 1.7477° W

Aflao Border

Land border scanning operations at the Ghana-Togo crossing, one of West Africa's busiest land border points.

6.1133° N, 1.1980° E

Paga Border

Northern border scanning facility at the Ghana-Burkina Faso crossing, securing the Upper East Region trade corridor.

10.9971° N, 1.1129° W

Akanu Border Post (Noepe)

Eastern border scanning operations at the Akanu/Noepe crossing on the Ghana-Togo border in the Volta Region.

6.2522° N, 1.0217° E

Hamile Border Post

Future scanning facility currently in development at the Hamile border crossing in the Upper West Region, expanding coverage along the Ghana–Burkina Faso corridor.

In Development