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ACE Shipment CSV Upload Feature (ACE Manifest): Difference between revisions

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{{note|This article is part of the [[ACE_Manifest_Software_User_Guide_(CBP)|BorderConnect ACE Manifest Guide]] and the [[BorderConnect_Software_User_Guide|BorderConnect Software User Guide]]|info}}
{{note|This article is part of the [[ACE_Manifest_Software_User_Guide_(CBP)|BorderConnect ACE Manifest Guide]] and the [[BorderConnect_Software_User_Guide|BorderConnect Software User Guide]]|info}}


{{#ev:youtube|bWwYYqaVZ0k|960|center|How to import shipments into an ACE eManifest}}
<div class="bc-wrap">


[[File:Company-pref.jpg|thumb|360px|right|Selecting '''Company Settings''' from the Account menu]]
<div class="bc-article-hero">
<h1>ACE Shipment CSV Upload Feature</h1>
<p>A comprehensive guide to bulk importing shipments into ACE eManifests using CSV files.</p>
<div class="bc-article-meta">
<span class="bc-article-pill"><i class="fas fa-file-csv"></i> Type: Data Import Tool</span>
<span class="bc-article-pill"><i class="fas fa-cubes"></i> Feature: Bulk Shipment Creation</span>
</div>
</div>


This guide explains how to import a large number of shipments into an [[ACE_Manifest_Software_User_Guide_(CBP)|ACE eManifest]] using BorderConnect’s CSV upload feature.
<div class="bc-card">


This feature is ideal when you have many shipments on one trip and want to avoid entering each shipment manually.
<div class="bc-float-video" style="margin-top: 0;">
  <div class="bc-video-trigger" data-video-id="bWwYYqaVZ0k">
    <div class="bc-play-icon"><i class="fas fa-play-circle"></i></div>
  </div>
</div>


== Overview ==
<h2 style="margin-top: 0;">Overview</h2>
<p>The <strong>ACE Shipment CSV Upload Feature</strong> allows carriers to import large volumes of shipments directly into a specific ACE eManifest using a standardized CSV template. This is ideal for trips with hundreds of shipments, such as courier loads or consolidated freight.</p>


Using a BorderConnect CSV template, you can:
<p>BorderConnect also offers the <strong>[[Import_Wizard_(ACE_and_ACI_eManifest)|File Import Wizard]]</strong>, a broader tool for importing permanent company data (drivers, trucks, profiles).</p>


* Upload shipments in bulk into a new or existing ACE eManifest
<div class="bc-did-you-know" style="margin-top: 15px;">
* Automatically validate shipment data before it is saved
<strong>Which Tool Should I Use?</strong><br>
* Resolve common formatting issues using clear import error messages
* <strong>CSV Upload (This Guide):</strong> Best for quick, trip-specific bulk shipment uploads directly into one manifest.<br>
* <strong>Import Wizard:</strong> Best for importing standing data like driver profiles, truck lists, or maintaining customer databases.
</div>


== Step 1: Enable ACE Import Buttons ==
<div style="clear: both;"></div>
</div>


[[File:Display-ace-import.png|thumb|360px|right|Enabling ACE import buttons in Company Settings]]
<h2 style="margin-top: 40px; border-bottom: 2px solid #eee; padding-bottom: 10px;">Step 1: Enable Import Buttons</h2>


By default, shipment import buttons are disabled for many companies.
<div class="bc-card">
<p>By default, the import controls may be hidden. To enable them:</p>
<div class="bc-cleanlist">
1. Go to <strong>Account</strong> > <strong>Company Settings</strong>.
2. Scroll to the <strong>eManifest Preferences</strong> section.
3. Set <strong>Display ACE Import Buttons</strong> to <strong>Yes</strong>.
4. Click <strong>Save</strong>.
</div>
[[File:Company-pref.jpg|thumb|center|Enabling Import Buttons in Company Settings]]
</div>


To enable them:
<h2 style="margin-top: 40px; border-bottom: 2px solid #eee; padding-bottom: 10px;">Step 2: Download the Template</h2>


# Go to '''Account''' on the top menu
<div class="bc-card">
# Click '''Company Settings'''
<p>You must use the official template to ensure your data maps correctly.</p>
# Scroll to '''eManifest Preferences'''
<div class="bc-cleanlist">
# Set '''Display ACE Import Buttons''' to '''Yes'''
* <strong>Download:</strong> [https://www.borderconnect.com/dist/ace-shipment-csv-template.csv ACE Shipment CSV Template]
# Click '''Save'''
* <strong>Format Rule:</strong> Do not rename, remove, or reorder the column headers. Always save as <strong>.csv</strong> (Comma Separated Values).
</div>
</div>


Once enabled, import controls will appear when creating or editing an ACE eManifest.
<h2 style="margin-top: 40px; border-bottom: 2px solid #eee; padding-bottom: 10px;">Step 3: Prepare Your Data</h2>


== Step 2: Download the CSV Template ==
<div class="bc-card">
<h3>Shipment Control Number (SCN)</h3>
<div class="bc-cleanlist">
* <strong>Format:</strong> Must be 8-16 alphanumeric characters. No spaces or special characters.
* <strong>Autofill:</strong> To let BorderConnect generate numbers, use your SCAC followed immediately by "AUTOFILL" (e.g., <code>ABCDAUTOFILL</code>).
* <strong>Rule:</strong> Do not mix manual SCNs and AUTOFILL in the same file.
</div>


Before uploading, download the official BorderConnect template file:
<h3>Shipment Type</h3>
<p>Values must match exactly (case-sensitive):</p>
<table class="wikitable" style="width: 100%;">
<tr><th>Type</th><th>Value</th></tr>
<tr><td>PAPS</td><td><code>PAPS</code></td></tr>
<tr><td>Section 321</td><td><code>SECTION 321</code></td></tr>
<tr><td>Intangibles</td><td><code>INTANGIBLES</code></td></tr>
<tr><td>Free of Duty</td><td><code>ATTACHED_CF7523</code></td></tr>
</table>


* [https://www.borderconnect.com/dist/ace-shipment-csv-template.csv ACE Shipment CSV Template]
<h3>Commodity Data</h3>
<div class="bc-cleanlist">
* <strong>Description:</strong> Plain language description of goods (max 45 chars).
* <strong>Value:</strong> Numeric only. No dollar signs (e.g., <code>1500.50</code>).
* <strong>Weight:</strong> Whole numbers only (round up).
</div>
</div>


Important rules:
<h2 style="margin-top: 40px; border-bottom: 2px solid #eee; padding-bottom: 10px;">Step 4: Importing into BorderConnect</h2>


* Do not rename, remove, or reorder the column headers
<div class="bc-card">
* Save the file as '''CSV''' format before uploading
<p>Once your file is ready, follow these specific steps to upload it into the system.</p>
* CSV is required even if you edit it using Excel or another spreadsheet tool


== Step 3: Fill Out the CSV File ==
<h3>1. Create or Open the Manifest</h3>
<div class="bc-cleanlist">
* Navigate to <strong>ACE eManifest</strong> > <strong>Start New ACE eManifest</strong>.
* Enter the required Trip details (Trip Number, Port of Entry, Estimated Arrival).
* Click <strong>Save</strong>. You must save the trip header before you can add shipments.
</div>


The template includes columns for:
<h3>2. Locate the Import Tool</h3>
<div class="bc-cleanlist">
* On the <strong>ACE eManifest Details</strong> page, scroll down to the <strong>Shipments</strong> section.
* Look for the button labeled <strong>Import Shipments via CSV</strong> (sometimes labeled <strong>Upload Shipments</strong>).
* <em>Note: If you do not see this button, ensure you completed Step 1 to enable import buttons in Company Settings.</em>
</div>
[[File:Ace-upload-shipments.png|thumb|center|800px|The Import Shipments interface in BorderConnect]]


* Shipment control number and shipment type
<h3>3. Upload and Process</h3>
* Shipper and consignee details
<div class="bc-cleanlist">
* Commodity description, value, quantity, weight, and units
* Click <strong>Choose File</strong> and select your prepared <code>.csv</code> file from your computer.
* Country of origin and additional shipment fields
* Click <strong>Save</strong> or <strong>Import</strong>.
* The system will process the file immediately.
</div>


== Field Specifications ==
<h3>4. Verify Results</h3>
<div class="bc-cleanlist">
* <strong>Success:</strong> You will see a green confirmation message, and your shipments will appear in the list below.
* <strong>Failure:</strong> A red error box will appear at the top of the page. It will list the specific row numbers and the exact error (e.g., "Row 4: Invalid SCAC"). Correct these errors in your CSV file and try uploading again.
</div>
</div>


Use the sections below to confirm data formatting before uploading.
<h2 style="margin-top: 40px; border-bottom: 2px solid #eee; padding-bottom: 10px;">Reference Codes</h2>


=== SCN (Shipment Control Number) ===
<div class="bc-card">
<h3><i class="fas fa-balance-scale"></i> Weight Unit Codes</h3>
<p>Only the following codes are accepted for the <strong>Weight Unit</strong> column:</p>
<table class="wikitable" style="width: 100%;">
<tr>
<th style="width: 30%;">Unit</th>
<th>Accepted Codes</th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Kilograms</strong></td>
<td><code>K</code>, <code>KG</code>, <code>KGM</code></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Pounds</strong></td>
<td><code>L</code>, <code>LB</code>, <code>LBS</code>, <code>LBR</code></td>
</tr>
</table>
</div>


The shipment control number uniquely identifies each shipment.
<div class="bc-card" style="margin-top: 20px;">
<h3><i class="fas fa-box"></i> Package Type Codes</h3>
<p>The <strong>Quantity Unit</strong> column must use one of the specific 3-letter codes below. (Case-sensitive).</p>


{| class="wikitable"
<div class="bc-2col">
! Requirement
<div style="flex: 1; min-width: 250px;">
! Rule
<table class="wikitable" style="font-size: 0.9em; width: 100%; margin-top: 0;">
|-
<tr><th>Description</th><th>Code</th></tr>
| Format
<tr><td>Bag</td><td>BAG</td></tr>
| Must start with a 4-character SCAC followed by your reference
<tr><td>Bale</td><td>BLE</td></tr>
|-
<tr><td>Barrel</td><td>BBL</td></tr>
| Characters allowed
<tr><td>Basket</td><td>BSK</td></tr>
| Alphanumeric only, no spaces, no special characters
<tr><td>Bin</td><td>BIN</td></tr>
|-
<tr><td>Box</td><td>BOX</td></tr>
| Uppercase
<tr><td>Bucket</td><td>BKT</td></tr>
| Letters must be uppercase
<tr><td>Bundle</td><td>BDL</td></tr>
|-
<tr><td>Can</td><td>CAN</td></tr>
| Length
<tr><td>Carboy</td><td>CBY</td></tr>
| 8 to 16 characters
<tr><td>Carton</td><td>CTN</td></tr>
|}
<tr><td>Case</td><td>CAS</td></tr>
<tr><td>Chest</td><td>CHS</td></tr>
<tr><td>Coil</td><td>COL</td></tr>
<tr><td>Crate</td><td>CRT</td></tr>
<tr><td>Cylinder</td><td>CYL</td></tr>
<tr><td>Drum</td><td>DRM</td></tr>
</table>
</div>
<div style="flex: 1; min-width: 250px;">
<table class="wikitable" style="font-size: 0.9em; width: 100%; margin-top: 0;">
<tr><th>Description</th><th>Code</th></tr>
<tr><td>Envelope</td><td>ENV</td></tr>
<tr><td>Keg</td><td>KEG</td></tr>
<tr><td>Lift Van</td><td>LVN</td></tr>
<tr><td>Liquid Bulk</td><td>LBK</td></tr>
<tr><td>Logs</td><td>LOG</td></tr>
<tr><td>Package</td><td>PKG</td></tr>
<tr><td>Pail</td><td>PAL</td></tr>
<tr><td>Pallet</td><td>PLT</td></tr>
<tr><td>Pieces</td><td>PCS</td></tr>
<tr><td>Reel</td><td>REL</td></tr>
<tr><td>Roll</td><td>ROL</td></tr>
<tr><td>Sack</td><td>SAK</td></tr>
<tr><td>Sheet</td><td>SHT</td></tr>
<tr><td>Skid</td><td>SKD</td></tr>
<tr><td>Tank</td><td>TNK</td></tr>
<tr><td>Tote Bin</td><td>TBN</td></tr>
<tr><td>Tube</td><td>TBE</td></tr>
</table>
</div>
</div>
</div>


==== SCN AUTOFILL Option ====
<div class="bc-card" style="margin-top: 20px;">
<h3><i class="fas fa-globe"></i> Common Country of Origin Codes</h3>
<p>Use the 2-letter ISO code for the <strong>Country of Origin</strong> column. Common codes include:</p>
<table class="wikitable" style="width: 100%;">
<tr><th>Country</th><th>Code</th><th>Country</th><th>Code</th></tr>
<tr><td>Canada</td><td><code>CA</code></td><td>United States</td><td><code>US</code></td></tr>
<tr><td>Mexico</td><td><code>MX</code></td><td>China</td><td><code>CN</code></td></tr>
<tr><td>Germany</td><td><code>DE</code></td><td>Japan</td><td><code>JP</code></td></tr>
<tr><td>United Kingdom</td><td><code>GB</code></td><td>France</td><td><code>FR</code></td></tr>
<tr><td>India</td><td><code>IN</code></td><td>Italy</td><td><code>IT</code></td></tr>
<tr><td>South Korea</td><td><code>KR</code></td><td>Taiwan</td><td><code>TW</code></td></tr>
</table>
<p style="font-size: 0.9em;"><em>Note: For a complete list of all world country codes, refer to the <a href="https://www.borderconnect.com/data/countries.json" target="_blank">BorderConnect Data JSON</a>.</em></p>
</div>


BorderConnect can auto-generate SCNs in sequence.
<h2 style="margin-top: 40px; border-bottom: 2px solid #eee; padding-bottom: 10px;">Importing 10,000+ Shipments</h2>


To use autofill, enter:
<div class="bc-card">
<p>For manifests exceeding 9,999 shipments, use the <strong>Link Shipments to Trip</strong> feature.</p>


* SCAC + AUTOFILL 
<div class="bc-2col">
Example: '''ZZZZAUTOFILL'''
<div>
<h3>Workflow</h3>
<div class="bc-cleanlist">
1. <strong>Master Manifest:</strong> Create the first manifest and import the first ~5,000 shipments.
2. <strong>Linked Manifests:</strong> Create additional manifests (e.g., Trip 123B, 123C).
3. <strong>Link Field:</strong> In the new manifests, set <strong>Link Shipments to Trip</strong> to the original Trip Number (123).
4. <strong>Transmit:</strong> Send the master manifest first. Then, send the linked manifests using "Link Shipments to Trip" transmission.
</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
[[File:Link-shipments-to-trip-field.png|thumb|center|800px|Linking Shipments to a Master Trip]]
</div>
</div>
</div>


Rules:
<h2 style="margin-top: 40px; border-bottom: 2px solid #eee; padding-bottom: 10px;">Common Import Errors</h2>


* If you use AUTOFILL, every shipment in the file must use AUTOFILL
<div class="bc-card">
* Do not mix AUTOFILL and manually-entered SCNs in the same upload
<h3>Troubleshooting Guide</h3>
<table class="wikitable" style="width: 100%;">
<tr>
<th style="width: 30%;">Error Message</th>
<th>Solution</th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><code>SCAC Code [AAA] is invalid.</code></td>
<td>SCAC must be exactly 4 characters.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><code>Shipment Type [SECTION321] is invalid</code></td>
<td>Check spacing. It must be <code>SECTION 321</code> with a space.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><code>Unknown packaging unit [box]</code></td>
<td>Package codes are case-sensitive. Use uppercase <code>BOX</code>.</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><code>Consignee State [California] is invalid</code></td>
<td>Use 2-letter codes (e.g., <code>CA</code>) for states and provinces.</td>
</tr>
</table>
</div>


=== Shipment Type ===
{{AppPromo}}


Only the values below are valid and are case sensitive.
== References ==
<references />


{| class="wikitable"
</div>
! Shipment Type
! Value
|-
| PAPS
| PAPS
|-
| QP In-Bond
| QP_IN_BOND
|-
| Intangibles
| INTANGIBLES
|-
| Free of Duty (Customs Form 7523)
| ATTACHED_CF7523
|-
| Returned American Products (Customs Form 3311)
| ATTACHED_CF3311
|-
| Personal Shipment (Customs Form 3299)
| ATTACHED_CF3299
|}
 
=== Province of Loading ===
 
This is the Canadian province or Mexican state where the shipment was picked up.
 
* Canada: use 2-letter province code (example: BC, ON)
* Mexico: use 3-letter state code (example: GRO)
* Codes must be uppercase
 
=== Shipper and Consignee ===
 
Use the following limits and formatting.
 
{| class="wikitable"
! Field
! Rule
|-
| Name
| 1 to 60 characters
|-
| Address
| 1 to 55 characters
|-
| City
| 1 to 30 characters
|-
| State/Province
| Use standard abbreviation, uppercase
|-
| Postal/Zip
| Must match required format for the country
|}
 
Postal and zip formatting notes:
 
* Canada: A1A1A1 or A1A 1A1
* Mexico: 12345
* U.S.: 12345 or 12345-6789
 
=== Commodity ===
 
{| class="wikitable"
! Field
! Rule
|-
| Description
| 1 to 45 characters, plain language, must describe the goods
|-
| Value
| Numeric only, one decimal allowed, no symbols or commas
|-
| Quantity
| Whole numbers only
|-
| Quantity Unit
| Must use a valid 3-letter package code
|-
| Weight
| Whole numbers only, rounded
|-
| Weight Unit
| Pounds: L, LB, LBS, LBR  Kilograms: K, KG, KGM
|-
| Country of Origin
| 2-letter country code, uppercase
|}
 
A full list of country codes can be downloaded here:
* [https://www.borderconnect.com/data/countries.json Country codes JSON]
 
==== Package Type Codes ====
 
The Quantity Unit field must use one of the valid 3-letter package codes below and is case sensitive.
 
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Package Type
! Value
! Package Type
! Value
! Package Type
! Value
! Package Type
! Value
|-
| Bag
| BAG
| Carton
| CTN
| Heads of Beef
| HED
| Roll
| ROL
|-
| Bale
| BLE
| Case
| CAS
| Keg
| KEG
| Sack
| SAK
|-
| Barrel
| BBL
| Cask
| CSK
| Lift Van
| LVN
| Sheet
| SHT
|-
| Basket
| BSK
| Chest
| CHS
| Liquid Bulk
| LBK
| Sides of Beef
| SID
|-
| Bin
| BIN
| Coil
| COL
| Logs
| LOG
| Skid
| SKD
|-
| Bing Chest
| BIC
| Container Bulk Cargo
| CBC
| Lugs
| LUG
| Tank
| TNK
|-
| Box
| BOX
| Cord
| COR
| Package
| PKG
| Tin
| TIN
|-
| Bucket
| BKT
| Crate
| CRT
| Pail
| PAL
| Tote Bin
| TBN
|-
| Bundle
| BDL
| Cylinder
| CYL
| Parcel
| PCL
| Tube
| TBE
|-
| Can
| CAN
| Drum
| DRM
| Pieces
| PCS
| Unit
| UNT
|-
| Can Case
| CCS
| Dry Bulk
| DBK
| Private Vehicle
| POV
| Van Pack
| VPK
|-
| Carboy
| CBY
| Gallon
| GAL
| Quarters of Beef
| QTR
| Vehicle
| VEH
|-
| Carcass
| CAR
| Hamper
| HMP
| Reel
| REL
| Wooden Case
| WDC
|}
 
== Step 4: Import the CSV Into an ACE eManifest ==
 
To import shipments:
 
# Start a new ACE eManifest or open an existing one for editing
# Use the import control near the top of the manifest page
# Click '''Choose File''' and select your CSV
# Click '''Save'''
 
A message will confirm whether the import succeeded or list the rows that failed validation.
 
Note: The button may reference JSON, but CSV files are accepted for this import tool.
 
[[File:Ace-upload-shipments.png|800px|center]]
 
== Importing 10,000 or More Shipments ==
 
{{#ev:youtube|LfbA8W-R9S0|360|right|Importing 10,000 or more shipments into an ACE Manifest}}
 
BorderConnect supports importing up to 9,999 shipments per manifest by default.
 
If you need 10,000 or more shipments on one trip, the process is:
 
* Create multiple manifests and import up to 9,999 into each
* Use '''Link Shipments to Trip''' to link shipments back to the original manifest for CBP processing
 
=== High Volume Workflow ===
 
{| class="wikitable"
! Step
! What You Do
|-
| 1
| Create the original manifest, import the first batch, save and view trip details
|-
| 2
| Create a second manifest with a modified trip number (example: add B)
|-
| 3
| Enable Show All Fields and set '''Link Shipments to Trip''' to the original trip
|-
| 4
| Import the second batch and save
|-
| 5
| Repeat for additional batches (example: add C, D) if required
|-
| 6
| Send the first manifest to CBP and wait for acceptance
|-
| 7
| Send each linked manifest to CBP using '''Link Shipments to Trip''' transmission
|}
 
[[File:Link-shipments-to-trip-field.png|800px|center]]
 
[[File:Send-link-shipments-to-trip.jpg|300px|thumb|center|Sending Link Shipments to Trip to CBP]]
 
== Common Import Errors ==
 
This section lists common CSV upload errors and how to correct them.
 
=== Shipment Control Number Errors ===
 
<pre style="white-space: pre-wrap; word-wrap: break-word;">
Can't perform import since AUTOFILL shipment numbers are combined with explicitly stated shipment control numbers.
</pre>
 
Cause:
* Some rows use SCAC+AUTOFILL and others use manual SCNs
 
Fix:
* Use AUTOFILL for all rows or remove AUTOFILL entirely
 
Also check for blank rows containing only commas near the bottom of the file.
 
<pre style="white-space: pre-wrap; word-wrap: break-word;">
SCAC Code [AAA5] is invalid. Must be 4 alphanumeric characters. [AAA5459071]
</pre>
 
Cause:
* SCAC is not exactly 4 characters
 
Fix:
* Correct SCAC to 4 alphanumeric characters
 
<pre style="white-space: pre-wrap; word-wrap: break-word;">
Shipment Control Number is invalid, it must be 8-16 alphanumeric characters with no spaces and letters must be uppercase. [AAAA545907321321321131]
</pre>
 
Cause:
* SCN too long or invalid format
 
Fix:
* Ensure 8 to 16 characters, uppercase, no spaces
 
=== Shipment Type Errors ===
 
<pre style="white-space: pre-wrap; word-wrap: break-word;">
Shipment Type [SECTION 321] is invalid [AAAA5459071]
</pre>
 
Cause:
* Incorrect value format
 
Fix:
* Use the valid value exactly, such as '''SECTION_321''' if applicable for your template version, or match the official list shown above
 
=== Shipper Errors ===
 
<pre style="white-space: pre-wrap; word-wrap: break-word;">
Province of Loading code [BX] unrecognized. [AAAA5459071]
OR
Province of Loading code [British Columbia] unrecognized. [AAAA5459071]
</pre>
 
Fix:
* Use province/state abbreviations only, example: BC
 
<pre style="white-space: pre-wrap; word-wrap: break-word;">
Shipper Name [...] invalid. Must be between 1 and 60 characters, with no accents or other invalid characters. [AAAA5459091]
</pre>
 
Fix:
* Shorten the name to 60 characters or fewer
 
<pre style="white-space: pre-wrap; word-wrap: break-word;">
Shipper Canadian Postal Code [VSS 1A1] invalid. [AAAA5459219]
</pre>
 
Fix:
* Ensure valid Canadian postal code format, example: V5S 1A1
 
=== Consignee Errors ===
 
<pre style="white-space: pre-wrap; word-wrap: break-word;">
Consignee State [California] is invalid or does not match with country [US]. [AAAA5459219]
</pre>
 
Fix:
* Use 2-letter U.S. abbreviations, example: CA
 
<pre style="white-space: pre-wrap; word-wrap: break-word;">
Consignee U.S. Zip Code [4321] invalid. [AAAA5459219]
</pre>
 
Fix:
* Use 5 digits or ZIP+4 format
 
Note: Spreadsheet tools can remove leading zeroes.
A ZIP like 04321 may become 4321 and fail validation.
 
A common workaround is to format the cell as text or use:
''="04321"''
 
=== Commodity Errors ===
 
<pre style="white-space: pre-wrap; word-wrap: break-word;">
Unknown packaging unit [box]. [AAAA5459219]
</pre>
 
Fix:
* Package codes must match exactly, example: '''BOX'''
 
<pre style="white-space: pre-wrap; word-wrap: break-word;">
Shipment commodity weight is invalid. It must be numeric [0.63]
</pre>
 
Fix:
* Weight must be a whole number, round up to 1 if under 1
 
<pre style="white-space: pre-wrap; word-wrap: break-word;">
Commodity weight unit [POUNDS] is invalid. [AAAA5459219]
</pre>
 
Fix:
* Use valid units: L, LB, LBS, or LBR


[[Category:ACE Manifest Guide]]
[[Category:ACE Manifest Guide]]
[[Category:BorderConnect Software User Guide]]
[[Category:BorderConnect Software User Guide]]

Latest revision as of 11:59, 11 February 2026

🔖 This article is part of the BorderConnect ACE Manifest Guide and the BorderConnect Software User Guide

ACE Shipment CSV Upload Feature

A comprehensive guide to bulk importing shipments into ACE eManifests using CSV files.

Type: Data Import Tool Feature: Bulk Shipment Creation

Overview

The ACE Shipment CSV Upload Feature allows carriers to import large volumes of shipments directly into a specific ACE eManifest using a standardized CSV template. This is ideal for trips with hundreds of shipments, such as courier loads or consolidated freight.

BorderConnect also offers the File Import Wizard, a broader tool for importing permanent company data (drivers, trucks, profiles).

Which Tool Should I Use?

  • CSV Upload (This Guide): Best for quick, trip-specific bulk shipment uploads directly into one manifest.
  • Import Wizard: Best for importing standing data like driver profiles, truck lists, or maintaining customer databases.

Step 1: Enable Import Buttons

By default, the import controls may be hidden. To enable them:

1. Go to Account > Company Settings. 2. Scroll to the eManifest Preferences section. 3. Set Display ACE Import Buttons to Yes. 4. Click Save.

Enabling Import Buttons in Company Settings

Step 2: Download the Template

You must use the official template to ensure your data maps correctly.

  • Download: ACE Shipment CSV Template
  • Format Rule: Do not rename, remove, or reorder the column headers. Always save as .csv (Comma Separated Values).

Step 3: Prepare Your Data

Shipment Control Number (SCN)

  • Format: Must be 8-16 alphanumeric characters. No spaces or special characters.
  • Autofill: To let BorderConnect generate numbers, use your SCAC followed immediately by "AUTOFILL" (e.g., ABCDAUTOFILL).
  • Rule: Do not mix manual SCNs and AUTOFILL in the same file.

Shipment Type

Values must match exactly (case-sensitive):

TypeValue
PAPSPAPS
Section 321SECTION 321
IntangiblesINTANGIBLES
Free of DutyATTACHED_CF7523

Commodity Data

  • Description: Plain language description of goods (max 45 chars).
  • Value: Numeric only. No dollar signs (e.g., 1500.50).
  • Weight: Whole numbers only (round up).

Step 4: Importing into BorderConnect

Once your file is ready, follow these specific steps to upload it into the system.

1. Create or Open the Manifest

  • Navigate to ACE eManifest > Start New ACE eManifest.
  • Enter the required Trip details (Trip Number, Port of Entry, Estimated Arrival).
  • Click Save. You must save the trip header before you can add shipments.

2. Locate the Import Tool

  • On the ACE eManifest Details page, scroll down to the Shipments section.
  • Look for the button labeled Import Shipments via CSV (sometimes labeled Upload Shipments).
  • Note: If you do not see this button, ensure you completed Step 1 to enable import buttons in Company Settings.
The Import Shipments interface in BorderConnect

3. Upload and Process

  • Click Choose File and select your prepared .csv file from your computer.
  • Click Save or Import.
  • The system will process the file immediately.

4. Verify Results

  • Success: You will see a green confirmation message, and your shipments will appear in the list below.
  • Failure: A red error box will appear at the top of the page. It will list the specific row numbers and the exact error (e.g., "Row 4: Invalid SCAC"). Correct these errors in your CSV file and try uploading again.

Reference Codes

Weight Unit Codes

Only the following codes are accepted for the Weight Unit column:

Unit Accepted Codes
Kilograms K, KG, KGM
Pounds L, LB, LBS, LBR

Package Type Codes

The Quantity Unit column must use one of the specific 3-letter codes below. (Case-sensitive).

DescriptionCode
BagBAG
BaleBLE
BarrelBBL
BasketBSK
BinBIN
BoxBOX
BucketBKT
BundleBDL
CanCAN
CarboyCBY
CartonCTN
CaseCAS
ChestCHS
CoilCOL
CrateCRT
CylinderCYL
DrumDRM
DescriptionCode
EnvelopeENV
KegKEG
Lift VanLVN
Liquid BulkLBK
LogsLOG
PackagePKG
PailPAL
PalletPLT
PiecesPCS
ReelREL
RollROL
SackSAK
SheetSHT
SkidSKD
TankTNK
Tote BinTBN
TubeTBE

Common Country of Origin Codes

Use the 2-letter ISO code for the Country of Origin column. Common codes include:

CountryCodeCountryCode
CanadaCAUnited StatesUS
MexicoMXChinaCN
GermanyDEJapanJP
United KingdomGBFranceFR
IndiaINItalyIT
South KoreaKRTaiwanTW

Note: For a complete list of all world country codes, refer to the <a href="https://www.borderconnect.com/data/countries.json" target="_blank">BorderConnect Data JSON</a>.

Importing 10,000+ Shipments

For manifests exceeding 9,999 shipments, use the Link Shipments to Trip feature.

Workflow

1. Master Manifest: Create the first manifest and import the first ~5,000 shipments. 2. Linked Manifests: Create additional manifests (e.g., Trip 123B, 123C). 3. Link Field: In the new manifests, set Link Shipments to Trip to the original Trip Number (123). 4. Transmit: Send the master manifest first. Then, send the linked manifests using "Link Shipments to Trip" transmission.

Linking Shipments to a Master Trip

Common Import Errors

Troubleshooting Guide

Error Message Solution
SCAC Code [AAA] is invalid. SCAC must be exactly 4 characters.
Shipment Type [SECTION321] is invalid Check spacing. It must be SECTION 321 with a space.
Unknown packaging unit [box] Package codes are case-sensitive. Use uppercase BOX.
Consignee State [California] is invalid Use 2-letter codes (e.g., CA) for states and provinces.
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References


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