# IATA Cargo-IMP (Interchange Message Procedures)

*Last updated: 2026-06-24*

> Seamless data exchange between airlines, freight forwarders, and ground handlers depends on agreed message formats—that is precisely what IATA Cargo-IMP (Interchange Message Procedures) delivers.

Seamless data exchange between airlines, freight forwarders, and ground handlers depends on agreed message formats—that is precisely what IATA Cargo-IMP (Interchange Message Procedures) delivers. Developed by IATA, the standard defines the structure, field names, and codes for all critical air cargo messages: booking confirmations, flight manifests, customs declarations, status updates, and proof of delivery. Built on a plain-text format, it has been embedded in industry IT systems for decades. The XML-based Cargo-XML standard has been introduced as a successor and is steadily gaining traction, though Cargo-IMP remains widely used across the industry.

**Source:** [https://www.iata.org/en/programs/cargo/e-freight/cargo-imp/](https://www.iata.org/en/programs/cargo/e-freight/cargo-imp/)

## Quick Facts

| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Term | IATA Cargo-IMP (Interchange Message Procedures) |
| Language | EN |
| Word count | 92 |
| Last updated | 2026-06-24 |
| Source | https://www.iata.org/en/programs/cargo/e-freight/cargo-imp/ |

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