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{{note|This article is part of the BorderConnect [[Customs_Compliance_Guide_(CBP_and_CBSA)|Customs Compliance Guide]]|info}}
{{note|This article is part of the BorderConnect [[Customs_Compliance_Guide_(CBP_and_CBSA)|Customs Compliance Guide]]|info}}


[[Image:Emanifest-jody.jpg|360px|right|thumb|BorderConnect eManifest Specialist - Jody]]'''BorderConnect’s [https://www.borderconnect.com/fax-service/index.htm eManifest Processing] service''' provides the ability for customers to fax or email their eManifest details to get processed and sent to customs for them. Many carriers use this as their primary method of filing eManifests. Others use it as an after-hours service. The intent of this guide is to provide you the basics about eManifests, as well as provide some of the best practices when using BorderConnect’s eManifest Processing service.
[[File:Emanifest-jody.jpg|360px|right|thumb|BorderConnect eManifest Specialist – Jody]]


== eManifest Processing Details ==
'''BorderConnect’s [https://www.borderconnect.com/fax-service/index.htm 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.
{{#ev:youtube|vm30GbWGX-g|360|right|BorderConnect Virtual Workshop - eManifest Processing Service}}BorderConnect’s friendly eManifest Specialists are fully trained on the procedures involved with ACE and ACI eManfiest.


* BorderConnect’s 24/7 eManifest Processing Centre processes approx 7,500 ACE and ACI eManifests a month.
Many carriers use this service as their '''primary method''' of filing eManifests, while others rely on it as an '''after-hours or backup solution'''. This guide explains how the service works, what information is required, and best practices to avoid delays at the border.
* BorderConnect support agents also support thousands of companies who rely on BorderConnect’s eManifest portal and API customers 24 hours a day.
* BorderConnect’s average eManifest processing time is ''6.1 minutes''. This may fluctuate based on when we receive the paperwork and how much data is needed to process the manifest.


''6.1min processing time based on 2015 and 2016 averages for over 180,000 manifests.''
__TOC__


== Getting Started ==
== What is eManifest Processing? ==


To register for BorderConnect eManifest Processing go to [https://www.borderconnect.com www.borderconnect.com] and click '''Sign Up Now'''.
{{#ev:youtube|vm30GbWGX-g|360|right|BorderConnect Virtual Workshop – eManifest Processing Service}}


*1. Enter your company details and verify your email. Once that’s been done a sales representative will follow-up with you in 1 business day or less. Or call BorderConnect.
BorderConnect’s eManifest Processing Centre is staffed 24/7 by specialists trained in both:
*2. If you have a valid SCAC code you can start using our service for ACE eManifest immediately.
* [[ACE_Manifest_Software_User_Guide_(CBP)|ACE Manifest]] (United States)
*3. If you have a valid Canadian Carrier Code we will send you the documents needed to complete the process with CBSA (Canada Border Services Agency). Once you’ve been approved by CBSA we will activate your account and inform you. This process typically takes 2-5 business days until you can start using our service for ACI eManifest.
* [[ACI_eManifest_Software_User_Guide_(CBSA)|ACI eManifest]] (Canada)
*4. Download the BorderConnect eManifest Fax Forms, which are required to be faxed or emailed so the eManifest can be processed accurately and in a timely manner. (Can be downloaded with the links below)


{{download|Download ACE Manifest Fax Form [https://borderconnect.com/pdf/ace-fax-form-1pg.pdf here] or [https://borderconnect.com/pdf/ace-fax-form-2pg.pdf 2-page form]|note}}
'''Key facts:'''
{{download|Download ACI eManifest Fax Form [https://borderconnect.com/pdf/aci-fax-form-1pg.pdf here] or [https://borderconnect.com/pdf/aci-fax-form-2pg.pdf 2-page form]|note}}
* Processes approximately '''7,500 ACE and ACI eManifests per month'''
{{download|Download Pre-Registration Fax Form [https://borderconnect.com/pdf/pre-registration-form.pdf here]|note}}
* Supports thousands of BorderConnect portal and API customers
* Average processing time: '''~6 minutes'''


== Information required for an ACE Manifest ==
''Average processing time based on 2015–2016 data across more than 180,000 manifests. Actual times may vary depending on completeness and complexity.''
[[Image:Ace-fax-form-1pg.jpg|400px|right|thumb|ACE eManifest Form]]
[[Image:Ace-manifest-fax-req.png|400px|right|thumb|Required data elements for ACE Manifest]]


'''Unique Trip Number''' ''required''
== Getting started ==


'''Port of Arrival''' ''required''
To register for BorderConnect eManifest Processing:


'''Estimated Time of Arrival''' ''required''
# Visit [https://www.borderconnect.com www.borderconnect.com] and click '''Sign Up Now'''
# Enter your company details and verify your email
# A BorderConnect representative will contact you within one business day (or sooner)


'''Truck''' ''required''
=== Account activation notes ===


* Truck Unit Number ''required''
{| class="wikitable"
* Truck Type ''required''
! Scenario !! What happens next
* VIN ''required''
|-
* License Plate ''required''
| 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
|}


'''Trailer''' ''required if you have trailer''
=== Required forms ===


* Trailer Unit Number ''required''
To ensure accurate and timely processing, BorderConnect requires the use of standardized fax/email forms.
* Trailer License Plate ''required''
* Trailer Type ''required''


'''Driver & Team Driver''' ''required''
{{download|Download ACE Manifest Fax Form – [https://borderconnect.com/pdf/ace-fax-form-1pg.pdf 1-page] or [https://borderconnect.com/pdf/ace-fax-form-2pg.pdf 2-page]|note}}
{{download|Download ACI eManifest Fax Form – [https://borderconnect.com/pdf/aci-fax-form-1pg.pdf 1-page] or [https://borderconnect.com/pdf/aci-fax-form-2pg.pdf 2-page]|note}}
{{download|Download Pre-Registration Fax Form – [https://borderconnect.com/pdf/pre-registration-form.pdf here]|note}}


* Driver Full Name ''required''
== Information required for an ACE Manifest (U.S.) ==
* FAST ID ''if driver is FAST approved''
* Date of Birth ''required if not FAST approved''
* Gender ''required if not FAST approved''
* Citizenship ''required if not FAST approved''
* Passenger ''required if you have a passenger''
* Passenger Full Name ''required''
* Date of Birth ''required''
* Citizenship ''required''
* Gender ''required''


'''Driver/Team Driver/Passenger Travel Documents Accepted:'''
[[File:Ace-fax-form-1pg.jpg|400px|right|thumb|ACE eManifest fax form]]
* Commercial Drivers License Passport/US Passport Card
[[File:Ace-manifest-fax-req.png|400px|right|thumb|Required ACE Manifest data elements]]
* Enhanced Drivers License NEXUS Card
* FAST Card Valid US VISA Card


''For more information on approved WHTI Documents visit:
=== Trip-level information ===
http://www.cbp.gov/travel/us-citizens/western-hemisphere-travel-initiative''


=== Information required for ACE Manifest shipment ===
{| class="wikitable"
! Data element !! Required?
|-
| Unique Trip Number || Yes
|-
| Port of Arrival || Yes
|-
| Estimated Time of Arrival (ETA) || Yes
|-
| Truck details (unit #, VIN, plate, type) || Yes
|-
| Trailer details (if applicable) || Yes
|-
| Driver details || Yes
|}


'''Required Shipment Data Elements:'''
=== Driver, team driver, and passenger information ===


'''Unique Shipment Control Number''' ''required''
Accepted travel documents include:
* Passport or Passport Card
* Enhanced Driver’s License
* FAST or NEXUS card
* Valid U.S. visa (if applicable)


'''Shipment Type''' ''required''
''For WHTI requirements, see: https://www.cbp.gov/travel/us-citizens/western-hemisphere-travel-initiative''


'''Shipper (Shipped From)''' ''required''
=== Shipment-level information (ACE) ===
* Shipper Name ''required''
* Full Address ''required''
'''Consignee (Destination) ''required''
* Consignee Name ''required''
* Full Address ''required''
'''Commodity Information''' ''required''
* Description of Goods ''required''
* Quantity ''required''
* Gross Weight ''required''
'''Hazardous Material Details''' ''required if hazardous''
* Hazmat UN Code ''required if hazardous''
* Emergency Contact Info ''required if hazardous''


{{reminder|In order to comply with ACE Manifest requirements you are required to ensure that both your manifest and the broker clearance on any PAPS shipments are on file with CBP before the driver arrives at the border.}}
{| class="wikitable"
! Data element !! Required?
|-
| Shipment Control Number || Yes
|-
| Shipment Type (e.g. PAPS, In-Bond) || Yes
|-
| Shipper name and address || Yes
|-
| Consignee name and address || Yes
|-
| Commodity description, quantity, weight || Yes
|-
| Hazardous details (UN code, contact) || If hazardous
|}


== Information required for an ACI eManifest ==
{{reminder|For ACE, both the manifest and broker clearance for any PAPS shipments must be on file with CBP before the driver arrives at the border.}}
[[Image:Aci-fax-form-1pg.jpg|400px|right|thumb|ACI eManifest Form]]
[[Image:Aci-manifest-fax-req.png|400px|right|thumb|Required data elements for ACI eManifest]]


'''Unique Conveyance Reference Number''' ''required and must be different than PARS number''
== Information required for an ACI eManifest (Canada) ==


'''Port of Entry''' ''required''
[[File:Aci-fax-form-1pg.jpg|400px|right|thumb|ACI eManifest fax form]]
[[File:Aci-manifest-fax-req.png|400px|right|thumb|Required ACI eManifest data elements]]


'''Estimated Date and Time of Arrival''' ''required''
=== Trip-level information ===


'''Sub Location/Warehouse''' ''required if going In-Bond''
{| class="wikitable"
! Data element !! Required?
|-
| Conveyance Reference Number (CRN) || Yes (must differ from CCN/PARS)
|-
| Port of Entry || Yes
|-
| Estimated Date & Time of Arrival || Yes
|-
| Sub-location / Warehouse || Required for In-Bond
|-
| Truck & trailer details || Yes
|-
| Driver & passenger details || Not required for ACI
|}


'''Truck''' ''required''
''CBSA ACI requirements: https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/prog/aci-manif-ipec/req-exig-eng.html''


* Truck Unit Number ''required''
=== Shipment-level information (ACI) ===
* Truck Type ''not required''
* VIN ''not required''
* License Plate ''required''


'''Trailer''' ''required if you have trailer''
{| class="wikitable"
! Data element !! Required?
|-
| Cargo Control Number (CCN) || Yes (must differ from CRN)
|-
| Shipment Type || Yes
|-
| Sub-location / Warehouse || Required for In-Bond
|-
| CSA importer BN || Required if CSA
|-
| Shipper & consignee details || Yes
|-
| Commodity description, quantity, weight || Yes
|-
| Hazardous details || If hazardous
|}


* Trailer Unit Number ''required''
{{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.}}
* Trailer License Plate ''required''
* Trailer Type ''required''


'''Driver & Team Driver''' ''not required''
== Travel document requirements ==
'''Passenger''' ''not required''


''For more information on what’s required for ACI eManifests visit:
[[File:Passport-card.jpg|400px|right|thumb|U.S. Passport Card (approved WHTI document)]]
https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/prog/aci-manif-ipec/req-exig-eng.html#tab3''


=== Information required for ACI Manifest shipment ===
=== Accepted documents for ACE ===
* Passport or Passport Card
* Enhanced Driver’s License
* FAST or NEXUS card


'''Unique Cargo Control Number''' ''required and must be different than Conveyance Reference Number (Trip Number)''
=== Accepted documents for ACI ===
* Proof of citizenship (passport, citizenship card)
* Driver’s license
* Permanent resident card (U.S. visa)
* Birth certificate
* INAC (Native American ID)
* Any approved WHTI document


'''Shipment Type''' ''required''
== Tips and common mistakes to avoid ==


'''Sub Location/Warehouse''' ''required if going In-Bond''
{| class="wikitable"
! Best practice !! Why it matters
|-
| Include a phone number on the fax/email || Allows BorderConnect to resolve missing info quickly
|-
| Wait one full hour after ACI acceptance || CBSA enforces strict pre-arrival timing
|-
| Send paperwork to the broker first || Broker delays are a common cause of border holds
|-
| Provide barcoded lead sheets for ACI || Required by CBSA; missing barcodes risk penalties
|-
| Use fillable PDF forms || Illegible forms cause errors and delays
|-
| Ensure CRN ≠ PARS/CCN (ACI) || Duplicate numbers will be rejected by CBSA
|-
| Confirm receipt with BorderConnect || Fax/email delivery can take several minutes
|}


'''CSA Importer Business Number''' ''required if CSA''
=== Need help? ===
 
If you are unsure about any detail, call BorderConnect before the truck departs. Most issues can be resolved quickly with a short phone call. BorderConnect support is available '''24/7'''.
'''Shipper (Shipped From)''' ''required''
* Shipper Name ''required''
* Full Address ''required''
'''Consignee (Destination)''' ''required''
* Consignee Name ''required''
* Full Address ''required''
'''Commodity Information''' ''required''
* Description of Goods ''required''
* Quantity ''required''
* Gross Weight ''required''
'''Hazardous Material Details''' ''required if hazardous''
* Hazmat UN Code ''required if hazardous''
* Emergency Contact Info ''required if hazardous''
 
{{reminder|In order to comply with ACI eManifest requirements you are required to ensure that both your manifest and the broker clearance on any PARS shipments are on file with CBSA for at least one hour before the driver arrives at the border.}}
 
== Travel Document Requirements ==
[[Image:Passport-card.jpg|400px|right|thumb|US Passport Card (an approved WHTI document)]]
 
=== The following are accepted travel documents for ACE ===
 
Any approved WHTI (Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative) Document
* Valid Passport or Passport Card
* Valid Enhanced Drivers License
* Valid FAST or NEXUS Card
 
=== The following are accepted travel documents for ACI ===
 
'''Examples of some approved travel documents for ACI:'''
* Proof of Citizenship ''(ie citizenship card, passport/passport card)''
* Valid Drivers License
* Permanent Resident Card ''(ie US VISA card)''
* Birth Certificate
* INAC ''(Native American ID)''
* Any approved WHTI Document ''(ie enhanced drivers license, FAST Card, NEXUS Card)''
 
== Tips and Common Mistakes To Avoid ==
 
'''Include driver or dispatch phone number on the fax form.'''
* If BorderConnect is missing information, or info needs to be clarified we must be able to reach someone in regards to the information on the fax form.
 
'''In ACI you must wait 1 hour after your eManfiest has been accepted by CBSA.'''
* CBSA has initiated a zero-tolerance policy. To find out when you will be cleared to cross you can contact BorderConnect 24/7.
 
'''Make sure to send paperwork to the customs broker first, and make sure they received and processed your entry.'''
* Brokers can take hours to process entries. Verify the broker used the correct shipment number and that the entry is certified by customs before you cross.
 
'''In ACI you must provide a barcoded lead sheet or cargo control number to the officer at the border.'''
* If you do not provide a barcoded CRN or CCN you may be at risk for penalties. A lead sheet can be requested simply by providing a fax back number or email on your fax form.
 
'''Print legibly, or use the digitally fillable .pdf fax form.'''
* If incorrect data is entered, or data is missing, delays and penalties may be assessed by CBP or CBSA.
 
'''In ACI, the Trip Number must not be the same as the PARS number.'''
* CBSA requires the CRN (Trip Number) to be unique, and it cannot match any existing Cargo Control Number (ie PARS number).
 
'''Always call to confirm the paperwork was received by BorderConnect.'''
* Please provide adequate time for BorderConnect to receive your fax or email. BorderConnect uses multiple fax servers and it could take up to 10 minutes for BorderConnect to receive the paperwork.
 
'''If you are unsure of something or have questions. Call BorderConnect.'''
* Many mistakes can be avoided or resolved with a quick phone call to one of our support agents. BorderConnect can be reached 24/7.


[[Category:Customs Compliance Guide]]
[[Category:Customs Compliance Guide]]

Latest revision as of 12:51, 22 January 2026

🔖 This article is part of the BorderConnect Customs Compliance Guide

BorderConnect eManifest Specialist – Jody

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. This guide explains how the service works, what information is required, and best practices to avoid delays at the border.

What is eManifest Processing?

Load video
YouTube
BorderConnect Virtual Workshop – eManifest Processing Service

BorderConnect’s eManifest Processing Centre is staffed 24/7 by specialists trained in both:

Key facts:

  • Processes approximately 7,500 ACE and ACI eManifests per month
  • Supports thousands of BorderConnect portal and API customers
  • Average processing time: ~6 minutes

Average processing time based on 2015–2016 data across more than 180,000 manifests. Actual times may vary depending on completeness and complexity.

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 notes

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

Required forms

To ensure accurate and timely processing, BorderConnect requires the use of standardized fax/email forms.

Download ACE Manifest Fax Form – 1-page or 2-page
Download ACI eManifest Fax Form – 1-page or 2-page
Download Pre-Registration Fax Form – here

Information required for an ACE Manifest (U.S.)

ACE eManifest fax form
Required ACE Manifest data elements

Trip-level information

Data element Required?
Unique Trip Number Yes
Port of Arrival Yes
Estimated Time of Arrival (ETA) Yes
Truck details (unit #, VIN, plate, type) Yes
Trailer details (if applicable) Yes
Driver details Yes

Driver, team driver, and passenger information

Accepted travel documents include:

  • Passport or Passport Card
  • Enhanced Driver’s License
  • FAST or NEXUS card
  • Valid U.S. visa (if applicable)

For WHTI requirements, see: https://www.cbp.gov/travel/us-citizens/western-hemisphere-travel-initiative

Shipment-level information (ACE)

Data element Required?
Shipment Control Number Yes
Shipment Type (e.g. PAPS, In-Bond) Yes
Shipper name and address Yes
Consignee name and address Yes
Commodity description, quantity, weight Yes
Hazardous details (UN code, contact) If hazardous
For ACE, both the manifest and broker clearance for any PAPS shipments must be on file with CBP before the driver arrives at the border.

Information required for an ACI eManifest (Canada)

ACI eManifest fax form
Required ACI eManifest data elements

Trip-level information

Data element Required?
Conveyance Reference Number (CRN) Yes (must differ from CCN/PARS)
Port of Entry Yes
Estimated Date & Time of Arrival Yes
Sub-location / Warehouse Required for In-Bond
Truck & trailer details Yes
Driver & passenger details Not required for ACI

CBSA ACI requirements: https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/prog/aci-manif-ipec/req-exig-eng.html

Shipment-level information (ACI)

Data element Required?
Cargo Control Number (CCN) Yes (must differ from CRN)
Shipment Type Yes
Sub-location / Warehouse Required for In-Bond
CSA importer BN Required if CSA
Shipper & consignee details Yes
Commodity description, quantity, weight Yes
Hazardous details If hazardous
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.

Travel document requirements

U.S. Passport Card (approved WHTI document)

Accepted documents for ACE

  • Passport or Passport Card
  • Enhanced Driver’s License
  • FAST or NEXUS card

Accepted documents for ACI

  • Proof of citizenship (passport, citizenship card)
  • Driver’s license
  • Permanent resident card (U.S. visa)
  • Birth certificate
  • INAC (Native American ID)
  • Any approved WHTI document

Tips and common mistakes to avoid

Best practice Why it matters
Include a phone number on the fax/email Allows BorderConnect to resolve missing info quickly
Wait one full hour after ACI acceptance CBSA enforces strict pre-arrival timing
Send paperwork to the broker first Broker delays are a common cause of border holds
Provide barcoded lead sheets for ACI Required by CBSA; missing barcodes risk penalties
Use fillable PDF forms Illegible forms cause errors and delays
Ensure CRN ≠ PARS/CCN (ACI) Duplicate numbers will be rejected by CBSA
Confirm receipt with BorderConnect Fax/email delivery can take several minutes

Need help?

If you are unsure about any detail, call BorderConnect before the truck departs. Most issues can be resolved quickly with a short phone call. BorderConnect support is available 24/7.

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