EManifest Processing Guide (ACE and ACI eManifest)
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🔖 This article is part of the BorderConnect Customs Compliance Guide |
eManifest Processing Service
BorderConnect's 24/7 service where trained specialists prepare and transmit eManifests on your behalf.
Overview
BorderConnect’s eManifest Processing Service allows carriers to fax or email their eManifest details to BorderConnect, where trained specialists prepare and transmit the eManifest to customs on the carrier’s behalf.
Many carriers use this service as their primary method of filing eManifests, while others rely on it as an after-hours or backup solution.
Key Stats:
- Volume: Processes approximately 7,500 ACE and ACI eManifests per month.
- Speed: Average processing time is ~6 minutes (based on 2015–2016 data).
- Expertise: Staffed 24/7 by specialists trained in both ACE (US) and ACI (Canada).
Getting Started
To register for BorderConnect eManifest Processing:
1. Visit www.borderconnect.com and click Sign Up Now. 2. Enter your company details and verify your email. 3. A BorderConnect representative will contact you within one business day (or sooner).
Account Activation Timeline
| Scenario | What happens next |
|---|---|
| You have a valid SCAC code | You can begin using ACE eManifest Processing immediately. |
| You have a Canadian Carrier Code | BorderConnect will provide CBSA registration documents; activation typically takes 2–5 business days. |
Download Required Forms
To ensure accurate and timely processing, please use our standardized forms:
Information Required for ACE (U.S.)
For U.S. bound shipments, the following information is mandatory.
Trip & Conveyance
- Unique Trip Number: Must be unique to your SCAC.
- Port of Arrival: Where you intend to cross.
- ETA: Estimated time of arrival.
- Vehicle Details: Truck/Trailer unit #, VIN, Plate, and Type.
- Driver Details: Name and travel documents (Passport/Card, FAST, EDL).
Shipment & Cargo
- Shipment Control Number (SCN): SCAC + Bill Number (e.g. PAPS).
- Shipment Type: PAPS, In-Bond, Section 321, etc.
- Parties: Shipper and Consignee names and addresses.
- Commodity: Description, quantity, weight.
- Hazmat: UN code and contact if applicable.
Reminder: For ACE, both the manifest and the broker's entry (for PAPS) must be on file with CBP before the driver arrives at the border.
Information Required for ACI (Canada)
For Canada bound shipments, note the differences in requirements (e.g., driver data is not required for ACI).
Trip & Conveyance
- Conveyance Reference Number (CRN): Must differ from the Cargo Control Number (CCN).
- Port of Entry: Where you intend to cross.
- ETA: Estimated date and time of arrival.
- Sub-location/Warehouse: Required for In-Bond shipments.
- Vehicle Details: Truck and Trailer details.
Shipment & Cargo
- Cargo Control Number (CCN): Carrier Code + PARS Number.
- Shipment Type: PARS, In-Bond, CSA, etc.
- Parties: Shipper and Consignee names and addresses.
- Commodity: Description, quantity, weight.
- Hazmat: UN code and contact if applicable.
Reminder: For ACI, both the eManifest and broker clearance for PARS shipments must be on file with CBSA at least one hour before arrival at the border.
Tips & Common Mistakes
| Best Practice | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Include a contact phone number | Allows BorderConnect specialists to resolve missing info quickly without rejecting the request. |
| Wait one full hour (ACI) | CBSA enforces strict pre-arrival timing. Crossing early results in penalties. |
| Send paperwork to broker first | Broker delays are the most common cause of border holds. Ensure they have the invoice before we send the manifest. |
| Use Fillable PDF Forms | Handwritten forms can be illegible, leading to data entry errors and delays. |
| Ensure CRN ≠ PARS/CCN (ACI) | Duplicate numbers for Trip and Cargo are rejected by CBSA. |
Need Help? If you are unsure about any detail, call BorderConnect before the truck departs. Support is available 24/7.