🔖 This article is part of the Shipment Release Types Guide

PAPS Shipment (USA/ACE)

A guide to the Pre-Arrival Processing System (PAPS), the standard release method for commercial goods entering the United States.

Country: USA (CBP) Type: Shipment Release

Overview

PAPS (Pre-Arrival Processing System) is the default Shipment Type for commercial trucks entering the United States.

In CBP’s ACE system, PAPS is the most common release method. It works by linking the Carrier's Manifest to the Broker's Entry using a unique Shipment Control Number (SCN)—commonly called the "PAPS Number."

The "Handshake": PAPS only works if the PAPS Number you type on your manifest exactly matches the PAPS Number the broker types on their entry. If they match, CBP releases the goods.

The PAPS Number (SCN)

Structure & SCAC

The PAPS Number is generated by the carrier. It consists of two parts:

1. SCAC Code: Your unique 4-letter carrier code assigned by the <a href="https://nmfta.org/scac/">NMFTA</a>. 2. Shipment Number: A unique sequence (up to 12 characters) assigned by you.

Example: ABCD12345678
(ABCD = SCAC, 12345678 = Unique Number)

The PAPS Workflow

Step 1: Carrier Prep

Action: Apply a PAPS barcode label to the paperwork (Invoice/Bill of Lading).
Action: Send the paperwork (with the barcode) to the Customs Broker.

Step 2: Broker Entry

Action: The Broker files an "Entry" with CBP, referencing that exact PAPS number.

Step 3: ACE eManifest

Action: The Carrier creates an ACE eManifest in BorderConnect, referencing that exact PAPS number.

Creating a PAPS in BorderConnect

1 Start New Shipment

Inside your ACE eManifest, click Create New Shipment.

Shipment Type: Select PAPS.
Shipment Control Number: Enter the PAPS number exactly as it appears on your sticker/paperwork.

2 Verify Match (Entry Numbers)

This is the most critical step. You need to confirm the broker has done their job.

Sync with CBP: Transmit your manifest.
Check Status: Look for the status Complete Manifest and Entry Numbers On File.

Entry Numbers: If you see "Entry Numbers" listed on your manifest dashboard, it means CBP has successfully linked your truck to the broker's paperwork. Do not cross without this link.

⚠️ Troubleshooting

Issue	Cause / Solution
No Entry Numbers	The broker hasn't filed yet, OR they filed under a different number. Contact the broker to confirm the PAPS number they used.
Shipment on File (Error)	You are using a PAPS number that was already used on a previous trip. You must use a unique number for every shipment.
Quantity Mismatch	The piece count you entered (e.g., 500 cartons) is drastically different from what the broker entered. Double-check your paperwork.

References