BRASS (CBP Shipment Type)
| This article is part of the Shipment Release Types Guide |
| BRASS for truck was discontinued with CBP's Truck Manifest Modernization (TMM). CBP advised that the C4 code would not be supported for truck shipments going forward and that filers must use an alternative entry or release method. BRASS for rail was not affected by that notice. |
BRASS (Border Release Advanced Screening and Selectivity) is a legacy U.S. Shipment Type that was used for goods to clear through CBP in ACE Manifest. It was designed to expedite the release of high-volume, highly compliant cargo shipments through CBP line release procedures.
Historically, the importer provided the carrier with a C4 code that covered the goods being imported. The C4 code was a key element of the BRASS program and was often provided in barcoded format. The driver for a truck shipment clearing under BRASS also had to be FAST-approved.
Current Truck Status
As part of Truck Manifest Modernization, CBP discontinued support for BRASS for truck shipments. C4 codes are no longer supported for truck BRASS processing, so carriers and importers must use another appropriate shipment or entry process, such as PAPS or ACE In-Bond, depending on the movement.
Historical Reporting in ACE eManifest
Before the truck phase-out, BRASS shipments were required to be declared on an ACE eManifest. To report a BRASS shipment, the carrier created an ACE Shipment designated as BRASS and transmitted it as part of the ACE Manifest.
Although a BRASS shipment was different from a PAPS shipment, the carrier still needed to provide:
- A unique Shipment Control Number
- Shipper, consignee, and commodity information
- The BRASS C4 Line Release Number from the paperwork
If the C4 number was no longer valid or was not allowed at the port of entry selected on the ACE Manifest, the carrier could receive a reject message on the ACE transmission.
Because BRASS was a type of formal entry, the customs broker still needed to receive the paperwork from the carrier in a timely fashion so that they were notified that the shipment was taking place. Unlike PAPS, it was not a requirement for the broker to file an entry before the carrier crossed the border.