🔖 This article is part of the BorderConnect ACE Manifest Guide

Split Shipments in ACE

A comprehensive guide to managing shipments that cross the border in multiple loads under a single Shipment Control Number (SCN).

Difficulty: Intermediate Time: 10 Minutes

Overview

A Split Shipment occurs when a single PAPS entry is transported across the border in multiple loads due to size or operational needs.

Because the shipment is split, it requires careful coordination to ensure all loads link back to the same Master shipment record in CBP's system.

Important Rule

Split shipments must be arranged by the importer/broker before the carrier moves the loads. CBP approval is required.

⚙️ Enable Split Shipments (One-Time Setup)

Before starting, ensure this is enabled in your account:

Go to Account → Company Settings.
Under ACE Shipment Settings, set Allow ACE "Split Shipments" to Yes.
Click Save.

Phase 1: The Master Shipment

The Master Shipment holds the total quantity for all loads combined. It is created first and sent to CBP as an "Unassociated" shipment.

1 Create the Shipment

Navigate to ACE eManifests → Start New ACE Shipment.
Enter the SCN (PAPS), Shipper, Consignee, and Commodity.
Crucial: Enter the Total Quantity for all loads combined.
Click Save.

2 Send to CBP

On the Shipment Details page, hover over the menu Shipment Only Send to CBP.
Select Send Unassociated Shipment.
Wait for the status to change to Accepted.

Phase 2: The Split Segments

Once the Master is accepted, create a separate manifest for every physical truckload.

1 Link the Segment

Start a New ACE eManifest and enter Trip/Driver info.
Click Save and Start New ACE Shipment.
Enter the Same SCN used for the Master.
Check the box: ☑ Split Shipment Segment.
Enter the quantity for this specific load only.

Final Step: Click Save (commodity info will auto-fill), then click Sync with CBP. Repeat this for every load until the total quantity reaches zero.

Visual Workflow

Quick Reference

Feature	Master Shipment	Split Segment
Sequence	Created First	Created Second
Manifest Status	Unassociated (Standalone)	Attached to eManifest
Quantity	Total (All Loads)	Partial (Truck Load)