BRASS (CBP Shipment Type)

This article is part of the Shipment Release Types Guide

This shipment type is being phased out by CBP and importers can no longer register for the BRASS program

BRASS (Border Release Advanced Screening and Selectivity) is a U.S. Shipment Type for goods to clear through CBP in ACE Manifest. It is designed to expedite the release of high-volume, highly-compliant cargo shipments, allowing the carrier to cross the border before the filing of a formal entry by the customs broker.

To qualify for release under BRASS, the importer must provide the carrier with a C4 code that covers the goods being imported. The C4 code is a key element of the BRASS program and is usually provided in barcoded format. From the carrier side it is also a requirement that the driver for a load clearing under BRASS be FAST-approved.

New registrations by importers into the BRASS program are not currently being accepted, so importers not currently in possession of a valid C4 code will not be entitled to have their goods clear under BRASS.

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 If the C4 number is no longer valid, or is not allowed at the port of entry selected on the ACE eManifest, the carrier will be notified via a reject message on their ACE transmission.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.