PARS Shipments Basic Overview (CBSA Shipments)
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🔖 This article is part of the BorderConnect PARS Software Guide |
PARS Checking Software
Monitor real-time CBSA release status updates for your Canada-bound shipments.
Overview
This guide explains how to monitor and manage PARS shipments using BorderConnect’s PARS Checking Software, powered by CBSA’s Release Notification System (RNS).
Once a broker files a PARS declaration and CBSA accepts it, the shipment will automatically appear in BorderConnect for real-time tracking.
Prerequisites:
To use this feature, your BorderConnect account must be active, your carrier code must be registered for RNS with CBSA, and brokers must be submitting entries using your specific carrier code.
Understanding PARS Lists
BorderConnect organizes PARS activity into easy-to-read, status-based listings to help dispatchers prioritize their workflow.
| Listing View | What It Shows | When to Use It |
|---|---|---|
| Newest Shipments | The most recent activity (both Accepted and Released). | Daily operations; checking driver readiness. |
| Accepted Shipments | Shipments accepted by CBSA but not yet released. | To confirm clearance before the driver arrives at the border. |
| Released Shipments | Shipments fully released by CBSA. | To generate proof of release and for audit records. |
| Purged Shipments | Aged shipments or those removed via status query. | Cleanup and exception handling. |
| RMD Shipments | Shipments released using RMD (Release on Minimum Documentation) options. | Tracking warehouse releases or special clearance scenarios. |
Newest Shipments Dashboard
The Newest Shipments screen is the primary working dashboard for most users. Access it via PARS Shipments → Newest Shipments.
1. Accepted PARS (Pre-Arrival)
These shipments have been submitted by a broker and accepted by CBSA, but are waiting for the driver to arrive at the border. Key fields include:
| Field | Description |
|---|---|
| Acceptance Time | Timestamp of when CBSA accepted the broker's entry. |
| PARS Number | The Cargo Control Number used by the broker. |
| Transaction Number | The broker's internal reference number. |
| Release Office | The specific port code where the driver is expected to cross. |
| ACI Status Links |
ACI Trip / Shipment Status: These columns link the RNS data to your ACI eManifests.
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Tip: Click View on any shipment to open full details, including broker name, sublocation, container numbers, and internal comments.
2. Released PARS (Post-Arrival)
Released shipments indicate that CBSA has authorized the load to enter Canada or be removed from a sufferance warehouse.
Proof of Release: Click the Print Proof of Release button to generate an official CBSA Release Notification Report (PDF). This document is legally valid and can replace lost stamped paperwork.
Filtered Views
Accepted Shipments Only
Isolates shipments that are Accepted but awaiting arrival. Use this list to catch broker errors (e.g., wrong port) or to verify driver readiness before they reach the booth.
Released Shipments Only
Isolates shipments that have already cleared. Use this for daily crossing confirmations and compliance auditing.
Purged Shipments
Shipments are automatically flagged as "Purged" if they remain accepted for over 30 days without release, or if a status query indicates the shipment no longer exists in CBSA's system. They are kept for historical reference.
Best Practices
- Match Numbers: Always verify the PARS number in BorderConnect matches the broker's paperwork exactly.
- Monitor Status: Watch the "Accepted" list before drivers arrive to ensure the broker has actually filed.
- Follow Up: If a shipment doesn't switch to "Released" after crossing, investigate immediately to avoid penalties.
- Save Records: Download the "Proof of Release" PDF for your own records, especially if physical paperwork was not stamped.