BRASS (CBP Shipment Type)
| This article is part of the Shipment Release Types Guide |
| BRASS for truck was discontinued with CBP's Truck Manifest Modernization (TMM). CBP advised that the C4 code will not be supported for truck going forward and filers must use an alternative entry/release method. (BRASS for rail was not affected by that notice.) |
BRASS (Border Release Advanced Screening and Selectivity) is a U.S. Shipment Type historically used at land borders to expedite release for repetitive, high-volume shipments under CBP’s Line Release procedures (19 CFR Part 142, Subpart D).[1][2]
In CBP’s ACE truck manifest guidance, BRASS is associated with a C4 (line release) code/barcode used to identify approved repetitive shipments and support expedited processing at the port for eligible movements.[3]
To qualify for release under BRASS/Line Release, the importer (or their entry filer) historically obtained a C4 code covering the repetitive shipment profile and provided that code (often as a barcode) for use at the border for the qualifying movements.[1][3]
Status / phase-out (truck): CBP advised via CSMS that BRASS as an entry type for truck would be discontinued as TMM rolled out to ports and that the C4 code will not be supported going forward for truck, requiring an alternative method for truck shipments. That CSMS notice explicitly states the change is effective for truck only and does not affect BRASS use for rail at that time.[4]
Declaring a BRASS Shipment in ACE eManifest
BRASS shipments are required to be declared on an ACE eManifest. To report a BRASS shipment the carrier will need to create an ACE Shipment designated as BRASS and ensure that the shipment is transmitted as part of their ACE eManifest. The example below shows how to report BRASS shipments using BorderConnect's ACE eManifest software.
Although a BRASS shipment is different from a PAPS shipment, the carrier will still need to provide a unique Shipment Control Number, as well as all other information normally required including Shipper, Consignee and commodity information. Additionally, the carrier will need to enter the BRASS C4 Line Release Number found on the paperwork. If the C4 number is no longer valid, or is not allowed at the port of entry selected on the ACE eManifest, the carrier will be notified via a reject message on their ACE transmission.
Because BRASS is a type of formal entry, the customs broker will need to receive the paperwork from the carrier in a timely fashion so that they are notified that the shipment is taking place. It is not a requirement for the broker to file an entry before the carrier crosses the border though, so typically no further communication with the broker is required.
References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 19 CFR Part 142, Subpart D — Line Release (eCFR): https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-19/chapter-I/part-142/subpart-D
- ↑ Federal Register — Procedures Governing the BRASS Program (Feb 1, 2002): https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2002/02/01/02-2466/procedures-governing-the-border-release-advanced-screening-and-selectivity-brass-program
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 CBP — ACE Truck Manifest User Guide (PDF): https://www.cbp.gov/sites/default/files/documents/ACE%20Truck%20Manifest%20User%20Guide.pdf
- ↑ Cite error: Invalid
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