<div class="htmlview paragraph">The U. S. Customs Service is working through international organizations to further its policy of facilitating the flow of cargo in international trade while interdicting the movement of contraband. These organizations, with United States participation, seek to harmonize customs procedures worldwide by developing international conventions and preparing recommendations to member states.</div> <div class="htmlview paragraph">The Service is also moving toward an automated merchandise processing system and is adapting its procedures to rapid technological advances in land and water transportation in the fields of containerization and the movement of cargo by lighters carried aboard seagoing vessels.</div>