Preparing Partial ACI eManifests in Two Carrier Scenarios (ACI eManifest)
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🔖 This article is part of the BorderConnect ACI eManifest Guide |
This guide explains how to prepare an ACI eManifest when one carrier contracts another carrier to transport goods into Canada on their behalf.
This process is commonly referred to as a referenced shipment and involves two parties:
- Primary Carrier – owns the shipment and submits cargo (shipment) data
- Secondary Carrier – physically transports the goods and submits trip (conveyance) data
Both parties must file their portion separately to create a complete ACI eManifest.
How Referenced Shipments Work
| Role | Responsible For | Carrier Code Used |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Carrier | Shipment (cargo) information | Used in Cargo Control Number (CCN) |
| Secondary Carrier | Trip (conveyance) information | Used in Trip Number |
Simple workflow:
Primary Carrier submits shipment → CBSA accepts shipment → Secondary Carrier links shipment to trip → Complete manifest created
Primary Carrier Responsibilities
The Primary Carrier:
- Provides the shipment to another carrier for transport
- Remains liable for the cargo until destination
- Submits all ACI shipment (cargo) data
- Uses their carrier code in the Cargo Control Number
They do not submit trip information.
Secondary Carrier Responsibilities
The Secondary Carrier:
- Physically transports the goods to Canada
- Reports arrival at the First Port of Entry
- Submits the ACI trip (conveyance) data
- Uses their own carrier code in the trip number
- Links the Primary Carrier’s shipment to their trip
No authorization letter is required — the ACI linkage serves as inferred authorization.
Preparing Shipment Data as the Primary Carrier
The Primary Carrier submits shipments without attaching them to a trip.
Step-by-Step
- From the top menu select ACI eManifests → Start New ACI Shipment
- Complete the shipment as normal
- Leave Attached to Trip Number blank
- Use the port where the Secondary Carrier will cross
- Click Save
Complete shipper, consignee, and commodity details as usual.
Transmit the shipment using:
Send to CBSA → Send New Shipment Request
Once accepted, the status will show On File with CBSA.
Provide the Secondary Carrier with:
- Cargo Control Number (CCN)
- Port of entry used
Preparing Trip Data as the Secondary Carrier
Before starting:
- Confirm shipment is on file with CBSA
- Obtain CCN and port from Primary Carrier
One-Time Setup (if needed)
Add the Primary Carrier’s carrier code under:
Account → Company → Canadian Carrier Codes
Enable referenced shipments under:
Account → Company Preferences → Allow ACI "Reference Only" Shipments
Creating the Trip
- Select ACI eManifests → Start New ACI eManifest
- Complete trip details normally
- Ensure port matches the Primary Carrier’s shipment
- Click Save
Add drivers, trailers, seals, or containers as required.
Linking the Shipment
- Click Create New Shipment
- Check Shipment Reference Only
- Enter the CCN provided by the Primary Carrier
- Click Save
Repeat for all shipments on the truck.
Transmitting the Manifest
Click Sync with CBSA from the manifest page.
Once accepted, status will update to On File with CBSA confirming successful linkage.
Transaction Numbers and Status Queries
Because the shipment uses another carrier’s code, transaction numbers will not auto-populate.
If subscribed to PARS Checking:
- Use Send Status Query from the Shipment Details Page
- CBSA will return transaction numbers if available
See: Status Query Guide
Common Rejects and How to Fix Them
| Reject Message | Meaning | Resolution |
|---|---|---|
| Invalid Status of Related Request | Shipment not on file | Confirm CCN and have Primary Carrier submit or correct shipment |
| CCN Cannot Be Related to 2 Conveyances | Shipment already linked | Ask Primary Carrier to de-link or contact support |
| Port Code Must Match | Port differs between shipment and trip | Correct trip port or have Primary Carrier update shipment |
If issues persist, contact: BorderConnect Support