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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">


BorderConnect also offers a newer, more user-friendly option called the '''[[Import_Wizard_(ACE_and_ACI_eManifest)|File Import Wizard]]''', which provides a guided import experience in one place. The Import Wizard supports multiple file types (including CSV and Excel formats) and can import many types of data used throughout ACE and ACI eManifests, such as shippers, consignees, vehicles, trailers, drivers, passengers, and shipments.
<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>


{| class="wikitable"
<h2 style="margin-top: 0;">Overview</h2>
! Option
<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>
! Best For
! File Types
|-
| [[Import_Wizard_(ACE_and_ACI_eManifest)|File Import Wizard]]
| Most imports and ongoing data maintenance (profiles and shipments)
| CSV, XLSX, XLS, XML, Numbers
|-
| CSV Upload on ACE eManifest
| Quick, trip-specific bulk shipment upload directly into one ACE manifest
| CSV
|}


== Step 1: Enable Import Buttons ==
<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>


By default, some companies have import buttons disabled.
<div class="bc-did-you-know" style="margin-top: 15px;">
<strong>Which Tool Should I Use?</strong><br>
* <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>


To enable imports:
<div style="clear: both;"></div>
</div>


# Go to '''Account'''
<h2 style="margin-top: 40px; border-bottom: 2px solid #eee; padding-bottom: 10px;">Step 1: Enable Import Buttons</h2>
# Click '''Company Settings'''
# Under '''eManifest Preferences''', set '''Display ACE Import Buttons''' to '''Yes'''
# Click '''Save'''


Once enabled, the import controls will appear when creating or editing an ACE eManifest.
<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>


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


Before uploading, download the official template:
<div class="bc-card">
<p>You must use the official template to ensure your data maps correctly.</p>
<div class="bc-cleanlist">
* <strong>Download:</strong> [https://www.borderconnect.com/dist/ace-shipment-csv-template.csv ACE Shipment CSV Template].
* <strong>Format Rule:</strong> Do not rename, remove, or reorder the column headers. Always save as <strong>.csv</strong> (Comma Separated Values).
</div>
</div>


* [https://www.borderconnect.com/dist/ace-shipment-csv-template.csv ACE Shipment CSV Template]
<h2 style="margin-top: 40px; border-bottom: 2px solid #eee; padding-bottom: 10px;">Step 3: Field Specifications</h2>


Important rules:
<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>


* Do not rename, remove, or reorder the column headers
<h3>Shipment Type</h3>
* Save the file as '''CSV''' format before uploading
<p>Values must match exactly (case-sensitive):</p>
* CSV is required even if you edit it using Excel or another spreadsheet tool
<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>


== Step 3: Fill Out the CSV File ==
<h3>Commodity & Units</h3>
<div class="bc-cleanlist">
* <strong>Quantity Unit:</strong> Must use a valid 3-letter package code (e.g., <code>BOX</code>, <code>CTN</code>, <code>PLT</code>, <code>SKD</code>).
* <strong>Weight:</strong> Whole numbers only. Round up if necessary.
* <strong>Weight Unit:</strong> Use <code>L</code>, <code>LB</code>, <code>LBS</code> for pounds or <code>K</code>, <code>KG</code>, <code>KGM</code> for kilograms.
</div>
</div>


The template includes columns for:
<h2 style="margin-top: 40px; border-bottom: 2px solid #eee; padding-bottom: 10px;">Importing 10,000+ Shipments</h2>


* Shipment control number and shipment type
<div class="bc-card">
* Shipper and consignee details
<p>For manifests exceeding 9,999 shipments, use the <strong>Link Shipments to Trip</strong> feature.</p>
* Commodity description, value, quantity, weight, and units
* Country of origin and additional shipment fields


== Field Specifications ==
<div class="bc-2col">
<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|Linking Shipments to a Master Trip]]
</div>
</div>
</div>


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


=== SCN (Shipment Control Number) ===
<div class="bc-card">
<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>


The shipment control number uniquely identifies each shipment.
{{AppPromo}}


{| class="wikitable"
== References ==
! Requirement
<references />
! Rule
|-
| Format
| Must start with a 4-character SCAC followed by your reference
|-
| Characters allowed
| Alphanumeric only, no spaces, no special characters
|-
| Uppercase
| Letters must be uppercase
|-
| Length
| 8 to 16 characters
|}


==== SCN AUTOFILL Option ====
</div>
 
BorderConnect can auto-generate SCNs in sequence.
 
To use autofill, enter:
 
* SCAC + AUTOFILL 
Example: '''ZZZZAUTOFILL'''
 
Rules:
 
* If you use AUTOFILL, every shipment in the file must use AUTOFILL
* Do not mix AUTOFILL and manually-entered SCNs in the same upload
 
=== Shipment Type ===
 
Only the values below are valid and case sensitive.
 
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! 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 ===
 
{| 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
# 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, then Save and View Trip Details
|-
| 2
| Create a second manifest using 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 the '''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 as specified in the Shipment Type table
 
=== 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
 
=== 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]]

Revision as of 15:42, 5 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: Field Specifications

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 & Units

  • Quantity Unit: Must use a valid 3-letter package code (e.g., BOX, CTN, PLT, SKD).
  • Weight: Whole numbers only. Round up if necessary.
  • Weight Unit: Use L, LB, LBS for pounds or K, KG, KGM for kilograms.

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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