Starting October 7, 2024, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will enforce new Air Cargo Advance Screening (ACAS) refusal measures. This change aims to enhance air cargo security by addressing vague cargo descriptions.
What You Need to Know About ACAS Requirements
The ACAS program was launched jointly by CBP and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) on June 12, 2019. It identifies and screens high-risk cargo before loading it onto flights bound for the U.S.
To meet ACAS requirements, you must submit a pre-loading security declaration to CBP. This declaration should include the following 7+1 data elements:
- Shipper’s Name: The individual or company name sending the cargo.
- Shipper’s Address: A detailed address including city, province, country, and postal code.
- Consignee’s Name: The individual or company name receiving the cargo.
- Consignee’s Address: A detailed address including city, province, country, and postal code.
- Cargo Description: Avoid vague terms. Provide precise details or a 6-digit Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) code. Rejected vague descriptions include “Gift,” “daily necessities,” “accessories,” “parts,” and “consolidated.” Use “consolidated” only for master air waybill level descriptions.
- Total Quantity: The quantity of the smallest packaging unit.
- Total Weight: The total weight of the cargo.
- Air Waybill Number: Includes both house and master air waybill numbers.
CBP's Evaluation Process and Measures
- Security Declaration Evaluation: CBP will review the submitted declaration. Ensure that the data complies with all cargo declaration requirements.
- Request for Additional Information: If specific details are needed or if the cargo description is vague, you may receive a warning or refusal notice. Correct and update your submissions during the warning period to meet future requirements.
- Forward for Screening: CBP may forward cargo for additional screening based on TSA-approved security procedures.
- Prohibited Loading: CBP will prohibit the transport of cargo that does not meet ACAS requirements.
Impact on Your Supply Chain
After the warning period, the system will reject vague cargo descriptions with a MISSING_CARGO_DESC error code, indicating issues with the cargo description.
Recent examples of vague descriptions rejected by ACAS include:
- AUTO PARTS
- CAP
- CLOTHES
- CHAIR
- FILM
- FITNESS EQUIPMENT
- GARMENTS
- HOSE
- HOUSEHOLD GOODS
- PUMPS
- PARTS
- T-SHIRT
For detailed guidelines on acceptable cargo descriptions, visit the ACAS Cargo Description Guidelines to prevent shipment delays.
CBP recommends submitting security declaration information as early as possible to avoid delays. Late ACAS data submissions close to the deadline may cause shipping delays.
If CBP identifies any enforcement-related issues, they may take further actions affecting your supply chain.
How ASLG Can Help
- Expert Guidance: Our team provides detailed guidance on accurately completing ACAS declarations, ensuring compliance with CBP requirements.
- Pre-Submission Review: We offer a review service to check your cargo descriptions and data elements before submission, helping you avoid common pitfalls and ensuring clarity in your declarations.
- Timely Updates: Stay informed of the latest updates and best practices related to ACAS compliance through our regular communication and support services.
- Efficient Processing: Our streamlined processes ensure that your cargo information is submitted and processed efficiently, minimizing the risk of delays or refusals.
- Customized Solutions: We tailor solutions to fit your specific shipping needs, helping you navigate complex regulations and maintain smooth operations.
