BorderConnect Wiki

BorderConnect Onboarding and Readiness Guide

Revision as of 16:53, 10 February 2026 by Admin (talk | contribs)

🔖 This article is part of the BorderConnect Software User Guide and the Customs Compliance Guide

Getting Started with BorderConnect

A complete roadmap for highway carriers to become compliant, authorize BorderConnect, and successfully cross the border.

Type: Onboarding Time: 20 Minutes

Overview

This guide walks highway carriers through every required step to become compliant and ready to submit electronic manifests using BorderConnect.

The end goal is simple: your manifests are accepted early, your drivers arrive prepared, and border delays are avoided.

Two Systems, One Goal

ACI eManifest is for shipments entering Canada (CBSA).
ACE Truck eManifest is for shipments entering the United States (CBP).

🚀 Quick Readiness Checklist

Country Government System What You Must Have Ready
Canada CBSA + CARM Portal Carrier Code, CARM Portal access, ACI authorization
United States CBP ACE SCAC Code, ACE Portal account (optional but recommended)

Once these government requirements are met, you can begin using BorderConnect live.

Crossing into Canada (CBSA & ACI)

CBSA requires all highway commercial cargo data to be transmitted electronically and accepted at least one hour before arrival at the First Port of Arrival (FPOA).[1]

1 Obtain a Carrier Code

A Carrier Code is a four-character identifier required to transact with CBSA. You request this through the CARM Client Portal.

  • Log in to the CARM Client Portal.
  • Register your business and complete the Carrier Code application.
  • Receive your assigned 4-character code (e.g., 8000).

Note: If you already have a carrier code, ensure it is linked to your CARM business account.

2 Authorize BorderConnect (Delegation of Authority)

For BorderConnect to transmit data on your behalf, you must grant access inside the CARM Client Portal.

  • In the CARM Portal, navigate to Manage pending employees / third party requests.
  • Approve the transaction request from BorderConnect (or your service provider).
  • Assign the role of Business Management or Program Management to ensure full filing capabilities.

3 Meet the One-Hour Rule

ACI data (Manifest + Shipments) must be on file and accepted for one hour before the driver arrives.

Avoid Penalties: Failure to meet the one-hour window may result in AMPS penalties or refused entry.[2]

Crossing into the United States (CBP & ACE)

CBP requires ACE Truck Manifests to be submitted and accepted one hour before arrival at the border.[3]

1 Standardize Your Data

To ensure smooth processing in ACE, your trip and equipment data must match exactly what the driver presents.

  • Tractor/Trailer: Use accurate unit numbers and license plates.
  • Trip Reference: Create a unique trip number for every crossing (e.g., SCAC + Date + Unit).
  • Shipper/Consignee: Ensure names and addresses match the Bill of Lading exactly.

2 Coordinate with Broker (PAPS)

ACE is a dual-filing system. You file the Manifest, and the customs broker files the Entry.

  • Provide the broker with your SCAC and PAPS Number.
  • Wait for the broker to file their entry.
  • In BorderConnect, look for the status "Complete Manifest and Entry Numbers on File" before sending the driver.

Setting Up BorderConnect

Before creating your first manifest, configure your account to save time later.

1. Register Carrier Codes

Enter your codes so BorderConnect knows who is filing.

  • Go to Account ➤ Company Settings.
  • Enter your Canadian Carrier Code (4 digits).
  • Enter your US SCAC Code (4 letters).
  • Click Save.

2. Create Profiles

Pre-load your assets to make manifesting instant.[4]

  • Drivers: Enter name, CDL, and FAST/Passport info.
  • Trucks: Enter Unit #, VIN, and Plate.
  • Trailers: Enter Unit # and Plate.

Driver Documentation

What the Driver Needs

🇺🇸 Entering USA (ACE)

  • ACE Cover Sheet: Optional but recommended. Can act as proof of filing.
  • PAPS Stickers: Placed on the invoice/BOL.
  • Passport/Visa: Valid WHTI-compliant document.

🇨🇦 Entering Canada (ACI)

  • ACI Lead Sheet: Mandatory. Must contain a barcode of the CRN (Trip Number) or CCN (Cargo Control Number).
  • PARS Stickers: Placed on the invoice/BOL for broker clearance.

Next Steps in BorderConnect

📱

eManifesting in your pocket. Process ACE & ACI eManifests, track shipments in real-time, and upload documents instantly—anytime, anywhere.

Download on theApp Store GET IT ONGoogle Play

References

  1. ↑ CBSA. "Advance Commercial Information (ACI)/eManifest Highway." https://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/prog/manif/eccrdhi-deccerout-eng.html
  2. ↑ 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
  3. ↑ CBP. "ACE Truck Manifest User Guide." https://www.cbp.gov/document/guidance/e-manifest-trucks-user-guide
  4. ↑ BorderConnect. "BorderConnect Software User Guide." https://wiki.borderconnect.com/index.php/BorderConnect_Software_User_Guide
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