E-Manifest Template Feature (ACE and ACI eManifest)

Overview

The eManifest Template Feature in BorderConnect is a powerful tool designed to streamline the creation of both ACE (U.S.) and ACI (Canada) eManifests. By allowing users to save frequently used trip, driver, equipment, and shipment information, templates drastically reduce data entry time and minimize the risk of costly keying errors.

If your fleet runs dedicated lanes, regular LTL routes, or frequently uses the same truck and driver combinations, setting up eManifest templates will significantly speed up your dispatching workflow.

Benefits of Using Templates

• Time Savings: Generate new manifests in seconds by pre-loading up to 90% of the required trip data.
• Reduced Errors: Eliminate repetitive manual data entry, reducing the chance of typos that could lead to customs rejections or border delays.
• Standardization: Ensure dispatchers are using the correct ports, drivers, and equipment for specific regular routes.
• Flexibility: Apply a template to populate the baseline data, then easily edit or add specific shipment details before transmitting.

How to Create an eManifest Template

There are two primary methods for creating an eManifest template in BorderConnect: saving an existing manifest as a template, or creating one from scratch.

Method 1: Saving an Existing Manifest as a Template (Recommended)

If you have already created an eManifest with the exact details you want to use again, you can quickly save it as a template.

1. Navigate to the eManifest Details page of the ACE or ACI manifest you wish to use.
2. Scroll to the top right of the manifest details section.
3. Click the Save As Template button.
4. A prompt will appear asking you to name the template. Enter a clear, descriptive name (e.g., "Detroit-Windsor Auto Parts - John Doe").
5. Click Save. The template is now saved and ready for future use.

Method 2: Creating a Template from Scratch

You can also build a template from the ground up without creating a live manifest first.

1. On the top menu bar, navigate to the ACE eManifests or ACI eManifests menu.
2. Select Search/Manage Templates.
3. Click the New Template button at the top of the screen.
4. Enter a Template Name. Make it easily identifiable for your dispatch team.
5. Fill out the standard manifest fields you want to save. You can include:
   • Trip Details: Port of Entry, Estimated Time of Arrival (ETA).
   • Conveyance: Truck, Trailer(s), Seal Numbers.
   • Crew: Driver, Co-Driver, Passengers.
   • Shipment Data: (Optional) You can leave this blank if shipments change daily, or include standard shipper/consignee data if it remains constant.
6. Click Save Template at the bottom of the page.

How to Use a Template to Create a New eManifest

Once your templates are saved, applying them to new shipments is quick and easy.

1. From the top menu, select Start New ACE eManifest or Start New ACI eManifest.
2. At the very top of the new manifest screen, locate the Use Template drop-down menu.
3. Select the desired template from the list.
4. Once selected, the page will automatically refresh and populate all the saved fields.
5. Review the pre-loaded information. You will likely need to update the Estimated Date and Time of Arrival (ETA) and add the specific Trip Number.
6. Add or modify any Shipments attached to the manifest for this specific trip.
7. Click Save and proceed to transmit your eManifest to Customs.

Managing and Editing Templates

Over time, drivers may change trucks, or regular routes might shift. You can easily update your existing templates.

1. Go to the ACE eManifests or ACI eManifests menu at the top of the screen.
2. Click on Search/Manage Templates.
3. You will see a list of all active templates.
4. To Edit: Click the Edit link next to the template. Make your necessary changes to the trip, driver, or equipment, and click Save.
5. To Delete: Click the Delete link next to the template to remove it permanently from your list.

Best Practices

• Use Descriptive Names: Name your templates based on a logical convention, such as [Port of Entry] - [Driver Name] - [Customer], so dispatchers can find them instantly.
• Leave Dynamic Fields Blank: If the trailer changes every trip but the truck and driver stay the same, leave the trailer field blank in the template to force the dispatcher to select the correct one manually.
• Regular Audits: Periodically review your template list and delete outdated templates for former drivers or retired equipment to keep the drop-down list clean and manageable.