PARS Checking Software User Guide (CBSA Shipments)
|
🔖 This article is part of the BorderConnect PARS Software Guide and the BorderConnect Software User Guide |
BorderConnect’s PARS Checking software uses the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) Release Notification System (RNS) to deliver electronic messages related to shipment release decisions and PARS processing status.[1]
This allows carriers and other trade chain participants to monitor the progress of shipments in near-real time and receive automated notifications directly from CBSA systems.
Why Use PARS Checking in BorderConnect
BorderConnect’s PARS Checking feature helps carriers proactively manage border crossings by providing visibility into CBSA release activity.
Key benefits include:
- Confirming whether PARS release requests are on file or processed (including outside broker business hours).
- Verifying that the PARS number and port entered by the customs broker match the PARS label and intended port of entry.
- Linking PARS numbers to ACI eManifests (for BorderConnect ACI users) to help ensure consistency between systems.
- Receiving CBSA release-related notifications through RNS (where applicable).[2]
- Printing release notification reports for internal records and auditing purposes.
Important: RNS messages themselves are not viewable within the CBSA eManifest Portal. CBSA provides separate “proof of report” or portal documents for official confirmation.[3]
Understanding CBSA’s Release Notification System (RNS)
The Release Notification System (RNS) is CBSA’s electronic messaging service that provides trade chain partners with timely notifications related to cargo release decisions, including PARS approvals.[4]
RNS messages may be sent to:
- Customs brokers
- Importers
- Highway carriers
- Sufferance warehouse operators
RNS Service Options
CBSA supports multiple RNS participation options:
| RNS Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Automatic Release Notification | Sends automated messages when shipments are released by CBSA |
| Arrival Certification | Confirms cargo arrival at a sufferance warehouse (WACM) |
| Status Query | Allows manual queries of shipment or PARS status |
| Automatic Status | Provides ongoing automated shipment status updates |
Getting Started with RNS and PARS Checking
Before using RNS-based features in BorderConnect, your company must be registered with CBSA for RNS.
General onboarding steps include:
- Submitting the official CBSA RNS Application Form.
- Selecting the RNS service options required for your operations.
- Completing any required CBSA testing or onboarding activities (where applicable).
For certain functions—such as Warehouse Arrival Certification Message (WACM)—CBSA requires registration and system testing with the Technical Commercial Client Unit (TCCU).[6]
Note: CBSA processing and approval timelines can vary depending on submission completeness and testing requirements.
Using PARS Checking in BorderConnect
Once registered, BorderConnect provides several tools for monitoring and managing PARS-related activity.
Refer to the following guides for step-by-step instructions:
Key CBSA Definitions (Reference)
PARS (Pre-arrival Review System) A CBSA service option allowing customs brokers and importers to submit interim accounting documentation prior to arrival in order to obtain release of commercial goods.[7]
RNS Message An electronic CBSA system message sent to a registered client regarding the status or release of cargo.[8]
WACM (Arrival Certification) Compliance Note
CBSA requires sufferance warehouse operators to transmit a Warehouse Arrival Certification Message (WACM) when cargo arrives at a sufferance warehouse. Requirements vary depending on shipment type and consolidation rules.
WACM transmission must:
- Be submitted electronically via EDI
- Be sent by a registered RNS participant
- Meet CBSA TCCU testing and approval requirements
PARS & RNS Video Tutorials
References
- ↑ CBSA eServices – Overview of applications (Release Notification System). https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/eservices/overview-sommaire-eng.html
- ↑ CBSA eServices – Overview of applications (Release Notification System). https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/eservices/overview-sommaire-eng.html
- ↑ CBSA eManifest Portal FAQ – “Can I view Release Notification System (RNS) Messages in the Portal?” https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/prog/manif/portal-portail/faq-eng.html
- ↑ CBSA eServices – Overview of applications (Release Notification System). https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/eservices/overview-sommaire-eng.html
- ↑ CBSA – Release Notification System (RNS) Application Form page. https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/eservices/forms-formulaires/rns-stam-eng.html
- ↑ CBSA Customs Notice 22-17 – Mandatory electronic notification of cargo at sufferance warehouses. https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/publications/cn-ad/cn22-17-eng.html
- ↑ CBSA Memorandum D3-4-2 – Highway pre-arrival and reporting requirements. https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/publications/dm-md/d3/d3-4-2-eng.html
- ↑ CBSA Memorandum D3-4-2 – Highway pre-arrival and reporting requirements. https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/publications/dm-md/d3/d3-4-2-eng.html
- ↑ CBSA Customs Notice 22-17 – Mandatory electronic notification of cargo at sufferance warehouses. https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/publications/cn-ad/cn22-17-eng.html