{{#ev:youtube|-O8AXA9ms5c|960|center|How to Use BorderConnect's In-Bond Manager}}
{{#ev:youtube|-O8AXA9ms5c|960|center|How to Use BorderConnect's In-Bond Manager}}
This guide offers instructions on using BorderConnect's '''U.S In-Bond Manager''' Add-On. [https://borderconnect.com/us-in-bond-manager/index.htm BorderConnect U.S. In-Bond Manager] allows users to electronically report in-bond arrivals, exports, diversions, and certain related updates to [[US Customs and Border Protection - General Information |U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)]]. It also provides visibility into in-bond shipments through the included In-Bond Status Query feature.
== Introduction ==
The '''BorderConnect U.S. In-Bond Manager''' is an add-on module that allows users to electronically file, update, and monitor U.S. in-bond shipments directly with [[US Customs and Border Protection - General Information|U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)]]. The module supports required electronic reporting of in-bond '''arrivals''', '''exports''', '''diversions''', and related updates through ACE, while also providing visibility into in-bond status through integrated In-Bond Status Queries.
CBP published a final rule in 2017 that modernized the U.S. in-bond process and expanded mandatory electronic reporting through ACE (Automated Commercial Environment).<ref name="FR_InBond_FinalRule_2017">https://public-inspection.federalregister.gov/2017-20495.pdf</ref> CBP later announced enforcement requiring trade users to report '''all in-bond exports, arrivals, and diversions electronically through ACE effective July 29, 2019''', and that CBP would no longer accept paper CBP Form 7512 to perform arrival/export functionality for covered shipments (with certain exemptions, such as air).<ref name="CSMS_Enforcement_2019_07_29">https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/USDHSCBP/bulletins/24effce</ref>
This guide explains the regulatory background, compliance requirements, and how to use BorderConnect’s In-Bond Manager to meet CBP’s electronic in-bond obligations.
Historically, some carriers would present paper documentation to support arrival/export handling at ports. However, '''electronic reporting is now the compliance requirement''', and paper documents should be treated as supporting documentation (including for local-port operational needs), not as a replacement for required electronic updates.<ref name="CSMS_Enforcement_2019_07_29" />
----
;'''Notable Changes To The In-Bond Process'''
== Introduction ==
:1. '''Electronic filing and reporting is required.''' In-bond transactions and required updates (including arrival and export updates, and diversion requests) must be transmitted through a CBP-approved electronic data interface (ACE/ABI/other CBP-approved EDI channels, as applicable).<ref name="CFR_Part18_PDF_2024">https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/CFR-2024-title19-vol1/pdf/CFR-2024-title19-vol1-part18.pdf</ref><ref name="CSMS_Enforcement_2019_07_29" />
CBP published a final rule in 2017 that modernized the U.S. in-bond process and expanded mandatory electronic reporting through ACE (Automated Commercial Environment).<ref name="FR_InBond_FinalRule_2017">https://public-inspection.federalregister.gov/2017-20495.pdf</ref>
:2. '''Arrival must be reported within 2 business days''' after arrival of any portion of an in-bond shipment at the port of destination or port of exportation, and the arrival notification must include the '''FIRMS code''' for the physical location of the merchandise within the port.<ref name="CFR_19_18_1_Cornell">https://www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/19/18.1</ref>
:3. '''Export updates must be reported electronically''' (generally within 2 business days after exportation, depending on the in-bond type and regulatory context).<ref name="CFR_19_18_7_Cornell">https://www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/19/18.7</ref><ref name="CFR_19_18_25_PDF">https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/CFR-2024-title19-vol1/pdf/CFR-2024-title19-vol1-sec18-25.pdf</ref>
:4. '''Diversions must be requested electronically''' and require CBP permission transmitted via a CBP-approved EDI system.<ref name="CFR_Part18_PDF_2024" />
:5. '''FIRMS codes are required for arrival reporting, and CBP has enforced validations.''' CBP issued guidance that as of '''August 10, 2024''', FIRMS codes are mandatory in electronic in-bond arrival reporting (all modes except air), and ACE will reject arrival transactions submitted without a FIRMS code.<ref name="CSMS_FIRMS_Required_2024_08_10">https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/USDHSCBP/bulletins/3b37839</ref>
:6. '''30-day maximum transit time''' applies broadly to in-bond movements (with specific exceptions described by CBP in regulatory materials/guidance).<ref name="FR_InBond_FinalRule_2017" />
:7. '''HTS (6-digit) requirement for certain in-bond movements: timing/enforcement may vary.''' CBP advised in 2019 that no date had been set at that time for implementation of the 6-digit HTS requirement for Immediate Transportation movements.<ref name="CSMS_Enforcement_2019_07_29" />
== Registering for BorderConnect U.S. In-Bond Manager and Getting Started ==
CBP later announced enforcement requiring that '''all covered in-bond arrivals, exports, and diversions be reported electronically through ACE effective July 29, 2019'''. As of that date, CBP no longer accepts paper '''CBP Form 7512''' to perform arrival or export reporting for covered shipments (with limited exemptions, such as air mode).<ref name="CSMS_Enforcement_2019_07_29">https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/USDHSCBP/bulletins/24effce</ref>
While paper documentation may still be used for local port operations or as supporting paperwork, '''electronic reporting is the compliance requirement'''. Paper documents do not replace required ACE updates.<ref name="CSMS_Enforcement_2019_07_29" />
If your company doesn't already have an account with BorderConnect, go to [https://www.borderconnect.com www.borderconnect.com] and click Sign Up Now. Enter your company details and finish the registration. Then, follow the instructions below.
;'''If you DO NOT have a filer code.'''
----
:1. Contact us, we'll help you submit a Letter of Intent.
== Key In-Bond Compliance Requirements ==
:2. U.S. Customs and Border Protection will issue you a filer code (processing times can vary).
:3. Our CBP client representative will set up your filer code to work with BorderConnect for In-Bond-only filing. You can now begin using the BorderConnect ABI add-on.
;'''If you already have a filer code.'''
{| class="wikitable"
! Requirement !! CBP Rule / Guidance
|-
| Electronic reporting || Required for arrivals, exports, and diversions
|-
| Arrival reporting deadline || Within '''2 business days''' of arrival
|-
| Export reporting deadline || Generally within '''2 business days''' of export
# '''Electronic filing is mandatory.''' All covered in-bond updates must be transmitted through a CBP-approved electronic interface (ACE/ABI/EDI).<ref name="CFR_Part18_PDF_2024">https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/CFR-2024-title19-vol1/pdf/CFR-2024-title19-vol1-part18.pdf</ref>
# '''Arrival reporting within 2 business days.''' Arrival notifications must include the '''FIRMS code''' identifying the physical location of the goods at the port.<ref name="CFR_19_18_1_Cornell">https://www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/19/18.1</ref>
# '''Electronic export reporting required.''' Export updates must be transmitted electronically for covered shipments.<ref name="CFR_19_18_7_Cornell">https://www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/19/18.7</ref>
# '''Electronic diversion requests required.''' Diversions require CBP authorization via a CBP-approved EDI interface.<ref name="CFR_Part18_PDF_2024" />
# '''FIRMS code enforcement.''' As of '''August 10, 2024''', ACE rejects in-bond arrival transactions submitted without a FIRMS code (all modes except air).<ref name="CSMS_FIRMS_Required_2024_08_10">https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/USDHSCBP/bulletins/3b37839</ref>
# '''30-day transit limit.''' Most in-bond movements are subject to a 30-day maximum transit time.<ref name="FR_InBond_FinalRule_2017" />
The In-Bond Dashboard provides visibility for U.S. in-bond shipments. Track in-bonds from filing to closing using advanced search options. See status of in-bonds at a glance and drill into reports and actions from one screen. Verify that arrivals/exports/diversions were successfully reported and retrieve key in-bond details using in-bond status queries.
'''[[Reporting_In_Bond_Arrivals_and_Exports_(U.S._In-Bond_Manager)|Reporting In-Bond Arrivals and Exports (U.S. In-Bond Manager)]]'''
{{#ev:youtube|c1Hb4UE0kDM|360|right|BorderConnect Virtual Workshop – U.S. In-Bond Manager}}
Electronically report arrival and export updates for U.S. in-bonds with minimal data entry. CBP requires arrival reporting generally within '''2 business days''' of arrival at the destination/export port, and the arrival update must include the '''FIRMS code''' identifying the facility/location where the freight is physically delivered within the port.<ref name="CFR_19_18_1_Cornell" /> CBP also issued guidance that, as of '''August 10, 2024''', ACE validations reject in-bond arrival transactions submitted without a FIRMS code (all modes except air).<ref name="CSMS_FIRMS_Required_2024_08_10" />
=== Step 1: BorderConnect account ===
If your company does not already have a BorderConnect account, visit [https://www.borderconnect.com www.borderconnect.com] and complete the registration process.
== QP In-Bond Filing Instructions ==
=== Step 2: Filer code setup ===
'''[[Creating_and_Submitting_a_New_QP_In-Bond_(U.S._In-Bond_Manager)|Creating and submitting a new QP In-Bond (U.S. In-Bond Manager)]]'''
;'''If you do not have a filer code'''
:# Contact BorderConnect support for assistance submitting a Letter of Intent.
:# CBP will issue a filer code (processing times vary).
:# A BorderConnect representative will configure your filer code for in-bond-only filing.
Electronically file a QP In-Bond using BorderConnect U.S. In-Bond Manager.
;'''If you already have a filer code'''
: BorderConnect will configure your existing filer code for use with the U.S. In-Bond Manager.
== BorderConnect U.S. In-Bond Manager Menu ==
Once configured, your account will be enabled to transmit electronic in-bond messages through ACE.
Displays all options in BorderConnect's U.S. In-Bond Manager. Options will only be available if your account has already been set up for BorderConnect's In-Bond Manager as above.
: This is the main listing page for all of your in-bond shipments. It shows a list of in-bond reports, summarizing known information for a given in-bond, including in-bond status, in-bond type, and port information.
=== In-Bond Status Queries ===
The In-Bond Dashboard is the central workspace for managing U.S. in-bond shipments. From this page, users can:
;'''In-Bond Status Query Search'''
* Search and filter in-bond shipments
: This page allows users to view in-bond status queries and see responses from CBP. Please note that in-bond status query results are also grouped and summarized in the in-bond reports available on the In-Bond Dashboard.
* View in-bond status at a glance
;'''Send In-Bond Status Query'''
* Confirm whether arrivals, exports, or diversions were successfully reported
: This page allows users to send status queries for in-bond shipments by entering in-bond entry numbers and requesting up-to-date information from CBP.
* Access related status queries and notices
* Drill into shipment-level details
=== WP Send Requests ===
----
WP is the message type used to electronically report certain in-bond updates to CBP (such as arrival, export, diversion, or transfer of liability), depending on the participant’s authorized interface and filing role. CBP requires electronic reporting of exports, arrivals, and diversions through ACE for covered shipments effective July 29, 2019.<ref name="CSMS_Enforcement_2019_07_29" />
== Reporting In-Bond Arrivals and Exports ==
;'''WP Send Request Search'''
[[File:Wp-in-bond-arrival.png|thumb|400|right|Reporting an in-bond arrival]]
: This page helps users search for previous WP send requests. Please note that WP requests and results are also grouped and summarized in the in-bond reports available on the In-Bond Dashboard.
;'''Arrive Entire In-Bond'''
: Notifies CBP that the in-bond shipment has arrived at the destination (far side) port specified on the in-bond. Arrival notifications must generally be reported within '''2 business days''' of arrival and must include the FIRMS code for the freight’s location within the port.<ref name="CFR_19_18_1_Cornell" />
;'''Arrive Bill of Lading'''
: Notifies CBP that one bill of lading on an in-bond shipment has arrived.
;'''Arrive Container'''
: Notifies CBP that one container on an in-bond shipment has arrived.
;'''Export Entire In-Bond'''
: Notifies CBP that the in-bond shipment has left the U.S. (export updates are required electronically for covered shipments).<ref name="CSMS_Enforcement_2019_07_29" />
;'''Export Bill of Lading'''
: Notifies CBP that one bill of lading on an in-bond shipment has left the U.S.
;'''Export Container'''
: Notifies CBP that one container on an in-bond shipment has left the U.S.
;'''Port Diversion'''
: Requests a change to the destination or export port of an in-bond movement. Diversions must be requested electronically and permission is transmitted via a CBP-approved EDI system.<ref name="CFR_Part18_PDF_2024" />
;'''Transfer Liability'''
: Transfers the liability for the in-bond shipment from the currently obligated party to a new one. This option should not be used without an understanding of when it is permitted by CBP.
== U.S. In-Bond Manager Software User Guide ==
'''[[Reporting_In_Bond_Arrivals_and_Exports_(U.S._In-Bond_Manager)|Reporting In-Bond Arrivals and Exports]]'''
Use BorderConnect’s U.S. In-Bond Manager to electronically file QP (Quick Processing) in-bond entries directly with CBP, including associated bills of lading and commodities.
* [[Send_In-Bond_Port_Diversion_Page_(U.S._In-Bond_Manager)|Send In-Bond Port Diversion Page]]
* [[Send_In-Bond_Transfer_of_Liability_Page_(U.S._In-Bond_Manager)|Send Transfer of Liability Page]]
== New In-Bond Regulations FAQ ==
----
Below are some common questions regarding the in-bond process changes and electronic reporting requirements. (Note: CBP has issued multiple updates over time; see the official CSMS messages and regulatory references cited throughout this page.)
== U.S. In-Bond Manager Menu Overview ==
'''1. What is changing with the new in-bond regulations and what do I have to do differently?'''
[[File:Abi-menu-header.png|524px]]
CBP’s in-bond modernization requires that in-bond arrivals, exports, and diversions be reported electronically through ACE for covered shipments, and CBP will not accept paper CBP Form 7512 to perform arrival and export functionality for those covered shipments (with certain exemptions such as air).<ref name="CSMS_Enforcement_2019_07_29" /><ref name="FR_InBond_FinalRule_2017" />
=== In-Bond Dashboard ===
Displays all in-bond shipments with summary information such as in-bond type, status, and ports.
'''2. Does this mean I won’t have to stop at the CBP port anymore?'''
=== In-Bond Status Queries ===
* '''Search In-Bond Status Queries''' – View historical queries and CBP responses
* '''Send In-Bond Status Query''' – Request current status from CBP for a specific in-bond
It depends on the shipment and port. Electronic reporting may remove the need for a port stop if the only purpose was arrival/export posting, but shipments subject to inspection, other agency requirements, local port policy, or CBP holds may still require presentation or other steps.<ref name="CSMS_Enforcement_2019_07_29" />
=== WP Send Requests ===
WP messages are used to electronically report in-bond updates to CBP.
'''3. Whose responsibility is electronic reporting of arrival and export?'''
The bond-obligated party remains responsible for compliance. Authorized agents may file on behalf of the obligated party, but liability remains with the bond principal if required in-bond obligations are not met.<ref name="FR_InBond_FinalRule_2017" />
'''4. What are my options for electronic reporting of in-bond arrival and export?'''
CBP has stated that required reporting is performed via CBP-approved electronic data interfaces (e.g., ACE Portal / ABI / other approved interfaces, depending on account and filing role).<ref name="CSMS_FIRMS_Required_2024_08_10" />
'''5. What is in-bond arrival and when is it required to be reported?'''
Arrival is when the shipment reaches the destination port (or port of exportation, as applicable). CBP’s regulations require that arrival be reported within '''2 business days''' and include the FIRMS code for the freight location within the port.<ref name="CFR_19_18_1_Cornell" />
'''6. What is in-bond export and when is it required to be reported?'''
* '''Arrive Entire In-Bond''' – Report arrival of the full in-bond
* '''Arrive Bill of Lading''' – Report arrival of a single bill
* '''Arrive Container''' – Report arrival of a container
* '''Export Entire In-Bond''' – Report export of the in-bond
* '''Export Bill of Lading''' – Report export of a bill
* '''Export Container''' – Report export of a container
* '''Port Diversion''' – Request a change to the destination or export port
* '''Transfer Liability''' – Transfer in-bond liability to another party (use with caution)
Export updates must be transmitted electronically for covered shipments; CBP regulations include requirements to update the in-bond record via a CBP-approved EDI system within '''2 business days''' after exportation in relevant contexts.<ref name="CFR_19_18_7_Cornell" /><ref name="CFR_19_18_25_PDF" />
Electronic reporting of these updates is required for covered shipments.<ref name="CSMS_Enforcement_2019_07_29" />
'''7. What about the FIRMS code requirement for arrival reporting?'''
----
CBP’s regulations require FIRMS codes in arrival reporting, and CBP issued guidance that as of '''August 10, 2024''', ACE validations reject in-bond arrival transactions submitted without a FIRMS code (all modes except air).<ref name="CSMS_FIRMS_Required_2024_08_10" />
== Frequently Asked Questions ==
'''8. Is it true the paper 7512 copy of the in-bond is being eliminated?'''
'''Do I still need paper CBP Form 7512?'''
CBP no longer accepts paper Form 7512 to perform arrival or export reporting for covered shipments. Some ports may still request paper copies for operational purposes, but electronic reporting remains mandatory.<ref name="CSMS_Enforcement_2019_07_29" />
CBP stated it would no longer accept paper CBP Form 7512 to perform arrival and export functionality for covered shipments effective July 29, 2019 (with exemptions such as air). However, some ports or scenarios may still require paper documentation for operational reasons, without changing the requirement for electronic reporting.<ref name="CSMS_Enforcement_2019_07_29" />
'''Does electronic reporting eliminate all port stops?'''
Not always. Electronic reporting may remove stops made solely for arrival/export posting, but inspections, holds, or local port procedures may still require presentation.
'''9. What about the 6-digit HTS requirement for Immediate Transportation in-bonds?'''
'''Who is responsible for compliance?'''
The bond-obligated party remains responsible, even when filing is delegated to an authorized agent.<ref name="FR_InBond_FinalRule_2017" />
CBP advised in July 2019 that no date had been set at that time for implementation of the 6-digit HTS requirement for Immediate Transportation movements.<ref name="CSMS_Enforcement_2019_07_29" />
The BorderConnect U.S. In-Bond Manager is an add-on module that allows users to electronically file, update, and monitor U.S. in-bond shipments directly with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). The module supports required electronic reporting of in-bond arrivals, exports, diversions, and related updates through ACE, while also providing visibility into in-bond status through integrated In-Bond Status Queries.
This guide explains the regulatory background, compliance requirements, and how to use BorderConnect’s In-Bond Manager to meet CBP’s electronic in-bond obligations.
Introduction
CBP published a final rule in 2017 that modernized the U.S. in-bond process and expanded mandatory electronic reporting through ACE (Automated Commercial Environment).[1]
CBP later announced enforcement requiring that all covered in-bond arrivals, exports, and diversions be reported electronically through ACE effective July 29, 2019. As of that date, CBP no longer accepts paper CBP Form 7512 to perform arrival or export reporting for covered shipments (with limited exemptions, such as air mode).[2]
While paper documentation may still be used for local port operations or as supporting paperwork, electronic reporting is the compliance requirement. Paper documents do not replace required ACE updates.[2]
Key In-Bond Compliance Requirements
Requirement
CBP Rule / Guidance
Electronic reporting
Required for arrivals, exports, and diversions
Arrival reporting deadline
Within 2 business days of arrival
Export reporting deadline
Generally within 2 business days of export
FIRMS code
Mandatory for arrival reporting (all modes except air)
Diversions
Must be requested electronically and approved by CBP
Maximum transit time
30 days (with limited regulatory exceptions)
Notable regulatory changes
Electronic filing is mandatory. All covered in-bond updates must be transmitted through a CBP-approved electronic interface (ACE/ABI/EDI).[3]
Arrival reporting within 2 business days. Arrival notifications must include the FIRMS code identifying the physical location of the goods at the port.[4]
Electronic export reporting required. Export updates must be transmitted electronically for covered shipments.[5]
Electronic diversion requests required. Diversions require CBP authorization via a CBP-approved EDI interface.[3]
FIRMS code enforcement. As of August 10, 2024, ACE rejects in-bond arrival transactions submitted without a FIRMS code (all modes except air).[6]
30-day transit limit. Most in-bond movements are subject to a 30-day maximum transit time.[1]
Use BorderConnect’s U.S. In-Bond Manager to electronically file QP (Quick Processing) in-bond entries directly with CBP, including associated bills of lading and commodities.
U.S. In-Bond Manager Menu Overview
In-Bond Dashboard
Displays all in-bond shipments with summary information such as in-bond type, status, and ports.
In-Bond Status Queries
Search In-Bond Status Queries – View historical queries and CBP responses
Send In-Bond Status Query – Request current status from CBP for a specific in-bond
WP Send Requests
WP messages are used to electronically report in-bond updates to CBP.
Arrive Entire In-Bond – Report arrival of the full in-bond
Arrive Bill of Lading – Report arrival of a single bill
Arrive Container – Report arrival of a container
Export Entire In-Bond – Report export of the in-bond
Export Bill of Lading – Report export of a bill
Export Container – Report export of a container
Port Diversion – Request a change to the destination or export port
Transfer Liability – Transfer in-bond liability to another party (use with caution)
Electronic reporting of these updates is required for covered shipments.[2]
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I still need paper CBP Form 7512?
CBP no longer accepts paper Form 7512 to perform arrival or export reporting for covered shipments. Some ports may still request paper copies for operational purposes, but electronic reporting remains mandatory.[2]
Does electronic reporting eliminate all port stops?
Not always. Electronic reporting may remove stops made solely for arrival/export posting, but inspections, holds, or local port procedures may still require presentation.
Who is responsible for compliance?
The bond-obligated party remains responsible, even when filing is delegated to an authorized agent.[1]
