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BorderConnect Onboarding and Readiness Guide: Difference between revisions

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{{#seo:
|title=Carrier Onboarding & Cross-Border Readiness Guide {{!}} BorderConnect Support Wiki
|title_mode=replace
|keywords=cross border trucking requirements, get a SCAC code, NMFTA SCAC, CBSA carrier code application, CARM portal carrier code, order PARS labels, order PAPS labels, eManifest software setup, BorderConnect onboarding
|description=A complete roadmap for new highway carriers. Learn how to obtain your CBSA Carrier Code, apply for an NMFTA SCAC code, order PARS/PAPS labels, and set up eManifest software.
}}
{{note|This article is part of the [[BorderConnect_Software_User_Guide|BorderConnect Software User Guide]] and the [[Customs_Compliance_Guide_(CBP_and_CBSA)|Customs Compliance Guide]]|info}}
{{note|This article is part of the [[BorderConnect_Software_User_Guide|BorderConnect Software User Guide]] and the [[Customs_Compliance_Guide_(CBP_and_CBSA)|Customs Compliance Guide]]|info}}
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= Onboarding for BorderConnect: Be Ready to File ACI (Canada) and/or ACE (U.S.) =
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<h1>Getting Started: Cross-Border Prerequisites</h1>
<p>A complete roadmap for highway carriers to obtain carrier codes, SCACs, and barcode labels before registering for eManifest software.</p>
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<span class="bc-article-pill"><i class="fas fa-flag-checkered"></i> Type: Onboarding</span>
<span class="bc-article-pill"><i class="far fa-clock"></i> Time: 15 Minutes</span>
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This guide prepares highway carriers and dispatch teams to complete the government registrations and setup steps required before using BorderConnect to create and transmit:
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* '''ACI eManifest''' (Canada – CBSA)
* '''ACE Truck e-Manifest''' (United States – CBP)


The goal is to ensure your manifests can be submitted, accepted, and time-stamped early enough that drivers arrive at the border compliant and ready.
<h2 style="margin-top: 0;">Overview</h2>
<p>Before you can begin transmitting electronic manifests to border agencies, you must first establish your company's identity with both the Canadian and U.S. governments and acquire the physical barcode labels required by customs brokers.</p>


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<p>This guide walks new highway carriers through every prerequisite step to become legally compliant and ready to implement BorderConnect software.</p>


== Crossing into Canada (CBSA ACI eManifest & CARM Client Portal) ==
[[File:Borderconnect-onboarding-steps.jpg|800px|center|BorderConnect prerequisites & onboarding.]]


CBSA’s highway ACI/eManifest guidance states that the Highway Cargo Document (and Combined Highway Document) may be submitted up to 30 days in advance, but must be received and validated at least '''one hour prior to arrival''' at the First Port of Arrival (FPOA).<ref>CBSA. "Advance Commercial Information (ACI)/eManifest Highway: Electronic Commerce Client Requirements Document (ECCRD) – Highway Mode." https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/prog/manif/eccrdhi-deccerout-eng.html</ref>
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CBSA’s eManifest Portal User Guide also states that trade documents must be received and validated at least one hour prior to arrival at the FPOA.<ref>CBSA. "eManifest Portal User Guide." https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/prog/manif/portal-portail/guide-eng.html</ref>
<h3>Two Systems, Two Identifiers</h3>
<strong>Entering Canada (CBSA):</strong> Requires a 4-character <strong>Carrier Code</strong> and <strong>PARS</strong> barcode labels.<br>
<strong>Entering the U.S. (CBP):</strong> Requires a 4-letter <strong>SCAC</strong> and <strong>PAPS</strong> barcode labels.
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=== Step 1: Obtain a CBSA Carrier Code ===
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A CBSA carrier code is a four-character unique identifier required to transact business with CBSA (highway, marine, air, rail).<ref>CBSA. "Commercial carrier and freight forwarder identification and eligibility." https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/services/carrier-transporteur/menu-eng.html</ref>
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<h3>🚀 Quick Readiness Checklist</h3>
{| class="wikitable" style="width:100%; margin-bottom:0;"
! Country !! Government System !! What You Must Have Ready
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| <strong>Canada</strong> || CBSA ACI eManifest || Carrier Code, CARM Portal access, PARS Barcode Labels
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| <strong>United States</strong> || CBP ACE Manifest || SCAC Code, PAPS Barcode Labels
|}
<p style="margin-top: 15px;">Once these government and physical requirements are met, you can register for your software.</p>
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CBSA’s Highway Carrier Code Application guidance explains the process:
<h2 style="margin-top: 40px; border-bottom: 2px solid #eee; padding-bottom: 10px;">Phase 1: Canadian Requirements (CBSA)</h2>
# Create an account in the CARM Client Portal (CCP)
# Complete the carrier code application in the CCP
# After receiving the carrier code, apply to transmit ACI and complete any required testing<ref>CBSA. "CBSA Guidelines – Highway Carrier Code Application Process." https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/services/carrier-transporteur/hccap-ddctr-eng.html</ref>


CBSA also notes that new carriers can request a carrier code when registering in the CARM Client Portal.<ref>CBSA. "Get started with CARM." https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/services/carm-gcra/start-passer-eng.html</ref>
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<h3><span class="bc-step-circle">1</span> Obtain a CBSA Carrier Code</h3>
<p>A <strong>Carrier Code</strong> is a four-character unique identifier required by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) for all highway carriers crossing into Canada. You must request this code directly through the CBSA Assessment and Revenue Management (CARM) portal.</p>
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* <strong>Log in</strong> to the [https://ccp-pcc.cbsa-asfc.cloud-nuage.canada.ca/ CARM Client Portal].
* <strong>Register</strong> your business and complete the Carrier Code application.
* <strong>Receive</strong> your assigned 4-character code (e.g., 8000).
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<strong>Note:</strong> If you already have an existing carrier code, simply ensure it is linked to your new CARM business account.
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=== Step 2: Set up your CARM Client Portal access ===
<h2 style="margin-top: 40px; border-bottom: 2px solid #eee; padding-bottom: 10px;">Phase 2: U.S. Requirements (CBP)</h2>


The CARM Client Portal is CBSA’s official platform for business enrollment, user access, and program enrolment workflows.<ref>CARM Client Portal login. https://ccp-pcc.cbsa-asfc.cloud-nuage.canada.ca/</ref>
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CBSA provides onboarding documentation and user guides for portal processes.<ref>CBSA. "CARM Client Portal onboarding documentation." https://ccp-pcc.cbsa-asfc.cloud-nuage.canada.ca/en/onboarding-documentation</ref>
<h3><span class="bc-step-circle">2</span> Obtain a SCAC Code</h3>
<p>To cross commercially into the United States, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) strictly requires all carriers to possess a <strong>Standard Carrier Alpha Code (SCAC)</strong>. This is a unique two-to-four-letter code used to identify transportation companies.</p>
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* The SCAC is assigned and maintained by the <strong>National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA)</strong>.
* Apply for your SCAC online directly through the NMFTA portal.
* Note that SCAC codes must be renewed annually to remain active and valid in CBP systems.
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Within the portal you must:
<h2 style="margin-top: 40px; border-bottom: 2px solid #eee; padding-bottom: 10px;">Phase 3: Ordering Cross-Border Barcodes (PARS & PAPS)</h2>
# Create and link your business profile 
# Assign internal roles and permissions 
# Complete program enrolments required for carrier operations 


CBSA publishes a specific user guide for enrolling in the Carrier program.<ref>CBSA. "User Guide – Enrol in the Carrier program." https://ccp-pcc.cbsa-asfc.cloud-nuage.canada.ca/en/assets/pdfs/onboarding/en/User%20Guide%20-%20Enrol%20in%20the%20Carrier%20program.pdf</ref>
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<p>Electronic manifests alone are not enough to cross the border. You must physically affix sequential barcode labels to your commercial invoices and Bills of Lading (BOL). These scannable barcodes are what the customs broker uses to file the entry, and what the border officer scans to release the truck.</p>


=== Step 3: Delegation of Authority (brokers and service providers) ===
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<h4>🇨🇦 Entering Canada: PARS Labels</h4>
<p>The <strong>Pre-Arrival Review System (PARS)</strong> is the default clearance method for commercial goods entering Canada. The PARS barcode label consists of your 4-character CBSA Carrier Code followed by a unique, sequential shipment number.</p>
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* <strong>Workflow:</strong> You affix this label to the commercial invoice and send it to the Canadian customs broker so they can set up the shipment with the CBSA in advance.
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If a customs broker or third-party service provider will act on your behalf, CBSA requires Delegation of Authority to be managed inside the CARM Client Portal.
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<h4>🇺🇸 Entering USA: PAPS Labels</h4>
<p>The <strong>Pre-Arrival Processing System (PAPS)</strong> is the default shipment type for commercial goods entering the United States. The PAPS barcode label begins with your 4-letter SCAC code, followed by a unique sequential number.</p>
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* <strong>Workflow:</strong> You affix this label to the paperwork and send it to the U.S. customs broker so they can file an entry referencing that exact PAPS number before you arrive.
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CBSA guidance includes:
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* Delegation of Authority user guide (PDF)<ref>CBSA. "User Guide – Delegation of Authority in the CARM Client Portal." https://ccp-pcc.cbsa-asfc.cloud-nuage.canada.ca/en/assets/pdfs/onboarding/en/User%20Guide%20-%20Delegation%20of%20Authority%20in%20the%20CARM%20Client%20Portal.pdf</ref>
<h3>Where to Order Compliant Labels</h3>
* Official walkthrough for delegating authority to a third party service provider<ref>CBSA. "How to set up a delegation of authority for a third party service provider in the CARM Client Portal." https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/multimedia/carm-gcra/portal-portail-r1-4-eng.html</ref>


=== Step 4: Meet the ACI highway timing requirement ===
<p>To ensure your barcodes scan correctly at the primary inspection booth and comply with all CBSA and CBP specifications, you must order them from a certified printer.</p>
<p><strong>[https://www.borderprint.com BorderPrint]</strong> specializes in cross-border print essentials. You can easily order CBSA-approved PARS labels and CBP-approved PAPS labels (available in sheets, rolls, or even digital formats for rush orders) and have them shipped next-day directly to your dispatch office.</p>
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CBSA requires highway cargo and conveyance data to be received and validated at least one hour prior to arrival at the FPOA.<ref>CBSA. "Advance Commercial Information (ACI)/eManifest Highway: ECCRD – Highway Mode." https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/prog/manif/eccrdhi-deccerout-eng.html</ref>
<h2 style="margin-top: 40px; border-bottom: 2px solid #eee; padding-bottom: 10px;">Phase 4: Ready for BorderConnect</h2>


CBSA Memorandum D3-4-2 explains that submissions with insufficient review time may trigger warnings and possible AMPS enforcement.<ref>CBSA. "Memorandum D3-4-2: Highway pre-arrival and reporting requirements." https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/publications/dm-md/d3/d3-4-2-eng.html</ref>
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<p>Once you have successfully obtained your CBSA Carrier Code, your NMFTA SCAC code, and have ordered your physical PARS and PAPS barcode labels from BorderPrint, you have completed all mandatory government and physical prerequisites.</p>


=== Step 5: Broker coordination (PARS shipments) ===
<p>You are now fully prepared to set up your eManifest software, enter your company credentials, and begin transmitting electronic trips directly to the border agencies to clear your freight.</p>


Many Canadian imports require broker clearance prior to release. Confirm that:
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* Brokers have your correct CBSA carrier code 
<strong>Next Step:</strong> Proceed to the [[How_To_Register_With_BorderConnect|Registering With BorderConnect]] guide to set up your account and start your free trial.
* Shipment identifiers align between ACI filings and broker entries 
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* Clearance timing supports arrival schedules 
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=== Step 6: Driver and equipment requirements (Canada) ===
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==== Driver requirements ====
 
Before a driver crosses commercially into Canada, ensure:
 
* Valid passport or approved travel document 
* Shipment paperwork (BOL, invoice references, PARS numbers where applicable) 
* Internal trip or manifest reference 
 
Drivers should:
* Know the port of entry 
* Arrive only after ACI acceptance and broker clearance are confirmed 
 
==== Equipment requirements ====
 
ACI eManifest requires accurate conveyance data including:
 
* Tractor (power unit) number 
* Trailer number(s) 
* Mode of transport (highway) 
* Port of entry 
 
Best practices:
 
* Use consistent numbering formats 
* Match physical equipment markings exactly 
* Update manifests if equipment changes 
 
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== Crossing into the United States (CBP ACE Truck e-Manifest) ==
 
CBP requires carriers to submit the ACE Truck Manifest at least one hour prior to arrival into the United States.<ref>CBP. "ACE Truck Manifest User Guide (PDF)." https://www.cbp.gov/sites/default/files/documents/ACE%20Truck%20Manifest%20User%20Guide.pdf</ref> 
CBP maintains official guidance for the Truck e-Manifest program.<ref>CBP. "e-Manifest: Trucks User Guide." https://www.cbp.gov/document/guidance/e-manifest-trucks-user-guide</ref>
 
=== Step 1: Understand the CBP one-hour prior submission rule ===
 
Carriers must submit and receive acceptance of the ACE Manifest no later than one hour prior to arrival at the U.S. border.<ref>CBP. "ACE Truck Manifest User Guide (PDF)." https://www.cbp.gov/sites/default/files/documents/ACE%20Truck%20Manifest%20User%20Guide.pdf</ref>
 
=== Step 2: Prepare consistent trip and equipment data ===
 
Before using BorderConnect:
 
* Standardize tractor numbers 
* Standardize trailer numbers 
* Define trip/manifest reference formats 
* Confirm shipment reference workflows with brokers 
 
=== Step 3: Broker coordination (entries / PAPS workflows) ===
 
Ensure broker entry data aligns with manifest submissions to avoid delays or rejection.
 
=== Step 4: Driver and equipment requirements (United States) ===
 
==== Driver requirements ====
 
Before a driver crosses commercially into the United States, ensure:
 
* Valid passport or approved travel document 
* Commercial driver’s license (CDL) as required 
* Shipment paperwork (BOL, invoice references, PAPS numbers) 
* Internal trip or manifest reference 
 
Drivers should:
* Know their tractor and trailer numbers 
* Arrive only after ACE acceptance is confirmed 
 
==== Equipment requirements ====
 
ACE Manifests require accurate conveyance data including:
 
* Tractor number 
* Trailer number(s) 
* Trip/manifest reference 
* Port of arrival 
 
Best practices:
 
* Keep identifiers consistent 
* Match physical equipment markings 
* Update trips immediately if equipment changes 
 
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== BorderConnect Go-Live Readiness Checklist ==
 
=== Canada ===
✔ CBSA carrier code issued<ref>CBSA. "CBSA Guidelines – Highway Carrier Code Application Process." https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/services/carrier-transporteur/hccap-ddctr-eng.html</ref> 
✔ CARM Client Portal enrolment complete<ref>CBSA. "User Guide – Enrol in the Carrier program." https://ccp-pcc.cbsa-asfc.cloud-nuage.canada.ca/en/assets/pdfs/onboarding/en/User%20Guide%20-%20Enrol%20in%20the%20Carrier%20program.pdf</ref> 
✔ Delegation of Authority handled where required<ref>CBSA. "User Guide – Delegation of Authority in the CARM Client Portal." https://ccp-pcc.cbsa-asfc.cloud-nuage.canada.ca/en/assets/pdfs/onboarding/en/User%20Guide%20-%20Delegation%20of%20Authority%20in%20the%20CARM%20Client%20Portal.pdf</ref> 
✔ Ability to meet ACI one-hour requirement<ref>CBSA. "Advance Commercial Information (ACI)/eManifest Highway: ECCRD – Highway Mode." https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/prog/manif/eccrdhi-deccerout-eng.html</ref>
 
=== United States ===
✔ Ability to meet CBP one-hour ACE Manifest requirement<ref>CBP. "ACE Truck Manifest User Guide (PDF)." https://www.cbp.gov/sites/default/files/documents/ACE%20Truck%20Manifest%20User%20Guide.pdf</ref> 
✔ Trip/equipment data standards defined 
 
== Next Steps in BorderConnect ==
 
* [[Creating_and_Submitting_a_New_ACI_eManifest_(ACI_eManifest)|Create your first ACI eManifest]]
* [[Creating_and_Submitting_a_New_ACE_Manifest_(ACE_Manifest)|Create your first ACE Manifest]]
* [[EManifest_Processing_Guide_(ACE_and_ACI_eManifest)|eManifest Processing Guide]]


== References ==
== References ==
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<references/>
</div> [[Category:BorderConnect Software User Guide]] [[Category:Customs Compliance Guide]]
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