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BorderConnect Onboarding and Readiness Guide: Difference between revisions

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Created page with "{{note|This article is part of the BorderConnect Software User Guide and the Customs Compliance Guide|info}} = Onboarding for BorderConnect: Be Ready to File ACI (Canada) and/or ACE (U.S.) = This guide prepares highway carriers and dispatch teams to complete the government registration and setup steps required before using BorderConnect to create and transmit: * '''ACI eManifest''' (CBSA,..."
 
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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}}
<div class="bc-wrap">


= Onboarding for BorderConnect: Be Ready to File ACI (Canada) and/or ACE (U.S.) =
<div class="bc-article-hero">
<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>
<div class="bc-article-meta">
<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>
</div>
</div>


This guide prepares highway carriers and dispatch teams to complete the government registration and setup steps required before using BorderConnect to create and transmit:
<div class="bc-card">
* '''ACI eManifest''' (CBSA, Canada)
* '''ACE Truck e-Manifest''' (CBP, United States)


The objective is simple: ensure your manifests are accepted on time, and your drivers arrive at the border ready and compliant.
<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>


__TOC__
<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 requires highway cargo and conveyance documents to be received and validated no later than '''one hour before arrival''' at the First Port of Arrival (FPOA). :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
<div class="bc-did-you-know" style="margin-top: 25px;">
<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.
</div>


=== Suggested screenshots to add (Canada) ===
<div style="clear: both;"></div>
</div>


Add these images to visually guide onboarding. Use screenshots from your own environment where possible.
<div class="bc-card" style="margin-top: 30px;">
<h3>🚀 Quick Readiness Checklist</h3>
{| class="wikitable" style="width:100%; margin-bottom:0;"
! Country !! Government System !! What You Must Have Ready
|-
| <strong>Canada</strong> || CBSA ACI eManifest || Carrier Code, CARM Portal access, PARS Barcode Labels
|-
| <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>
</div>


* '''CARM Client Portal landing page''' (screenshot)
<h2 style="margin-top: 40px; border-bottom: 2px solid #eee; padding-bottom: 10px;">Phase 1: Canadian Requirements (CBSA)</h2>
  [[File:carm-portal-landing.png|900px|thumb|center|CARM Client Portal: login/landing page]]
* '''Enrol in the Carrier program''' (screenshot of the CCP menu path)
  [[File:carm-enrol-carrier-program.png|900px|thumb|center|CARM: Enrol in a CBSA program → Enrol in the Carrier program]]
* '''Delegation of Authority screen''' (screenshot)
  [[File:carm-delegation-of-authority.png|900px|thumb|center|CARM: Delegation of Authority (approve broker/service provider access)]]
* '''BorderConnect ACI acceptance/status screen''' (your UI screenshot)
  [[File:borderconnect-aci-accepted-status.png|900px|thumb|center|BorderConnect: ACI submission accepted and time-stamped]]
* '''Driver lead sheet example''' (your document screenshot)
  [[File:aci-driver-leadsheet-example.png|900px|thumb|center|Example: ACI lead sheet / trip summary provided to drivers]]


=== Step 1: Obtain a CBSA Carrier Code ===
<div class="bc-card">
<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>
<div class="bc-cleanlist">
* <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).
</div>
<div class="bc-subtle">
<strong>Note:</strong> If you already have an existing carrier code, simply ensure it is linked to your new CARM business account.
</div>
</div>


A '''carrier code''' is a four-character identifier issued by CBSA. CBSA’s Highway Carrier Code Application guidance explains the process and that you apply via the CARM Client Portal (CCP). :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
<h2 style="margin-top: 40px; border-bottom: 2px solid #eee; padding-bottom: 10px;">Phase 2: U.S. Requirements (CBP)</h2>


Practical onboarding notes:
<div class="bc-card">
* Have your legal business information ready (legal name, address, primary contacts).
<h3><span class="bc-step-circle">2</span> Obtain a SCAC Code</h3>
* Complete the carrier code application inside the CCP (CBSA describes the high-level steps). :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
<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>
<div class="bc-cleanlist">
* 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.
</div>
</div>


=== Step 2: Set up your CARM Client Portal (CCP) access ===
<h2 style="margin-top: 40px; border-bottom: 2px solid #eee; padding-bottom: 10px;">Phase 3: Ordering Cross-Border Barcodes (PARS & PAPS)</h2>


CBSA’s CARM Client Portal is the login/registration point for portal access. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3} 
<div class="bc-card">
CBSA also publishes user guides for enrolling in CBSA programs (including the Carrier program). :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
<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>


Do this in CCP:
<div class="bc-2col" style="margin-top: 20px;">
# Create portal user access and ensure your business is enrolled correctly
<div>
# Assign internal roles so the right people can manage program enrolment and authorizations
<h4>🇨🇦 Entering Canada: PARS Labels</h4>
# Prepare to approve broker and/or service provider access via Delegation of Authority (next step)
<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>
<div class="bc-cleanlist">
* <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.
</div>
</div>


=== Step 3: Delegation of Authority (brokers and service providers) ===
<div>
<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>
<div class="bc-cleanlist">
* <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.
</div>
</div>
</div>


If a customs broker or a third-party service provider needs to act on your behalf, CBSA provides Delegation of Authority guidance and a user guide for completing this in the CARM Client Portal. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
<div class="bc-did-you-know" style="margin-top: 25px;">
<h3>Where to Order Compliant Labels</h3>


Practical onboarding notes:
<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>
* Confirm who will file what (your team vs broker vs service provider).
<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>
* Review any pending third-party requests inside CCP before approving. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}
</div>
</div>


=== Step 4: Be ready to meet the ACI highway timing requirement ===
<h2 style="margin-top: 40px; border-bottom: 2px solid #eee; padding-bottom: 10px;">Phase 4: Ready for BorderConnect</h2>


CBSA’s ACI/eManifest highway rules state highway cargo and conveyance documents must be received and validated no later than one hour before arrival at the FPOA. :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7} 
<div class="bc-card">
CBSA’s Memorandum D3-4-2 also discusses system warnings and potential AMPS applicability when submissions occur with insufficient review time. :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
<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>


Operational checklist for dispatch:
<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>
* Build your dispatch workflow so ACI is submitted early enough to be accepted and time-stamped before the one-hour window.
* If an ETA changes significantly, update timing and ensure compliance still holds.


=== Step 5: Broker coordination (PARS shipments) ===
<div style="margin-top: 25px; padding: 15px; background-color: #f8fbff; border-left: 4px solid #0056b3; border-radius: 4px;">
<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.
</div>
</div>


For many Canadian imports, broker release is required and must align with the carrier’s reporting. Ensure your broker has your correct carrier identifier and shipment references so entries can be matched to the shipment.
{{AppPromo}}


(If you want this section to be fully “cite-backed,” tell me which CBSA page you prefer as your canonical PARS reference and I’ll align to that source; many carriers use internal SOP + broker instructions.)
== References ==
<references/>


=== Step 6: Driver readiness (Canada) ===
</div> [[Category:BorderConnect Software User Guide]] [[Category:Customs Compliance Guide]]
 
Before dispatch, ensure the driver has:
* Port of entry and ETA (matching what was transmitted)
* Shipment paperwork per your SOP
* Any internal trip/lead sheet references used to retrieve the manifest at the border
* Confirmation the ACI submission is accepted in time (one-hour rule) :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}
 
== Crossing into the United States (CBP ACE Truck e-Manifest) ==
 
CBP requires inbound truck cargo information be received in CBP electronic systems at least '''one hour prior to arrival''' (general rule; FAST exceptions may apply). :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
 
=== Suggested screenshots to add (United States) ===
 
* '''ACE Truck Manifest User Guide cover page / relevant section''' (excerpt screenshot from the CBP PDF)
  [[File:cbp-ace-truck-manifest-user-guide.png|900px|thumb|center|CBP: ACE Truck Manifest User Guide (reference)]]
* '''ACE Secure Data Portal login page''' (your screenshot)
  [[File:ace-portal-login.png|900px|thumb|center|ACE Secure Data Portal login]]
* '''BorderConnect ACE acceptance/status screen''' (your UI screenshot)
  [[File:borderconnect-ace-accepted-status.png|900px|thumb|center|BorderConnect: ACE trip accepted and time-stamped]]
* '''Driver trip summary / trip number reference''' (your document screenshot)
  [[File:ace-driver-trip-summary.png|900px|thumb|center|Example: ACE trip summary provided to drivers]]
 
=== Step 1: Understand the CBP 1-hour e-Manifest requirement ===
 
CBP’s ACE Truck Manifest User Guide states carriers are required to submit an e-Manifest one hour prior to arrival into the United States. :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11} 
CBP’s Inbound Truck Mode FAQs also state cargo information must be received at least one hour prior to arrival (with FAST-related context). :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
 
=== Step 2: Obtain identifiers and ensure your trip data is consistent ===
 
Before go-live, ensure your operation has a consistent method to capture:
* Tractor and trailer identifiers used on the ACE trip
* Driver/trip references your team uses internally
* Shipment control references (as required by your process and broker workflow)
 
(Your BorderConnect ACE guide can document which exact fields your team must gather every time.)
 
=== Step 3: Broker coordination (PAPS / entries) ===
 
For many U.S. commercial shipments, broker entries must align with manifest data. During onboarding, confirm:
* Your broker has your correct carrier identifiers (and any shipment control numbering rules you use)
* The trip/shipment details you transmit match what the broker will file
 
=== Step 4: Driver readiness (United States) ===
 
Before dispatch, ensure:
* ACE trip is submitted and accepted in time (general one-hour rule) :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
* Driver has trip references your operation provides (trip summary/lead sheet) to support a smooth border interaction
 
== BorderConnect Go-Live Checklist ==
 
=== Canada (ACI/eManifest) ===
* ✔ CBSA carrier code issued and on file :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}
* ✔ CARM Client Portal access and carrier program enrolment complete :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}
* ✔ Delegation of Authority handled for brokers/service providers where needed :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}
* ✔ Dispatch process supports the CBSA one-hour validation rule :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}
 
=== United States (ACE Truck e-Manifest) ===
* ✔ Dispatch process supports CBP’s one-hour e-Manifest requirement :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}
* ✔ Internal trip/shipment data capture is consistent (tractor/trailer/trip references)
 
== Next Steps in BorderConnect ==
 
* [[Creating_and_Submitting_a_New_ACI_eManifest_(ACI_eManifest)|Create and submit your first ACI eManifest]]
* [[Creating_and_Submitting_a_New_ACE_Manifest_(ACE_Manifest)|Create and submit your first ACE Manifest]]
* [[EManifest_Processing_Guide_(ACE_and_ACI_eManifest)|eManifest Processing Guide (end-to-end workflow)]]

Latest revision as of 15:13, 24 February 2026

🔖 This article is part of the BorderConnect Software User Guide and the Customs Compliance Guide

Getting Started: Cross-Border Prerequisites

A complete roadmap for highway carriers to obtain carrier codes, SCACs, and barcode labels before registering for eManifest software.

Type: Onboarding Time: 15 Minutes

Overview

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.

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

BorderConnect prerequisites & onboarding.
BorderConnect prerequisites & onboarding.

Two Systems, Two Identifiers

Entering Canada (CBSA): Requires a 4-character Carrier Code and PARS barcode labels.
Entering the U.S. (CBP): Requires a 4-letter SCAC and PAPS barcode labels.

🚀 Quick Readiness Checklist

Country Government System What You Must Have Ready
Canada CBSA ACI eManifest Carrier Code, CARM Portal access, PARS Barcode Labels
United States CBP ACE Manifest SCAC Code, PAPS Barcode Labels

Once these government and physical requirements are met, you can register for your software.

Phase 1: Canadian Requirements (CBSA)

1 Obtain a CBSA Carrier Code

A Carrier Code 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.

  • Log in to the CARM Client Portal.
  • Register your business and complete the Carrier Code application.
  • Receive your assigned 4-character code (e.g., 8000).

Note: If you already have an existing carrier code, simply ensure it is linked to your new CARM business account.

Phase 2: U.S. Requirements (CBP)

2 Obtain a SCAC Code

To cross commercially into the United States, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) strictly requires all carriers to possess a Standard Carrier Alpha Code (SCAC). This is a unique two-to-four-letter code used to identify transportation companies.

  • The SCAC is assigned and maintained by the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA).
  • 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.

Phase 3: Ordering Cross-Border Barcodes (PARS & PAPS)

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.

🇨🇦 Entering Canada: PARS Labels

The Pre-Arrival Review System (PARS) 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.

  • Workflow: 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.

🇺🇸 Entering USA: PAPS Labels

The Pre-Arrival Processing System (PAPS) 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.

  • Workflow: 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.

Where to Order Compliant Labels

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.

BorderPrint 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.

Phase 4: Ready for BorderConnect

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.

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.

Next Step: Proceed to the Registering With BorderConnect guide to set up your account and start your free trial.

📱

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References


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