BRASS (CBP Shipment Type)
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🔖 This article is part of the Shipment Release Types Guide |
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⚠️ BRASS for truck was discontinued with CBP's Truck Manifest Modernization (TMM). CBP advised that the C4 code will not be supported for truck going forward and filers must use an alternative entry/release method. (BRASS for rail was not affected by that notice). |
BRASS (Border Release Advanced Screening and Selectivity)
A guide to the historical U.S. Line Release procedure and its phase-out for highway carriers.
Overview
BRASS is a U.S. shipment type historically used at land borders to expedite the release of repetitive, high-volume shipments under CBP’s Line Release procedures.
In the ACE Truck Manifest system, BRASS was identified by a C4 code (Line Release number). This code allowed for expedited processing at the port for eligible, low-risk movements that occurred frequently between the same importer, shipper, and carrier.
The C4 Barcode: Historically, drivers would present a C4 barcode to the CBP officer at the booth, which triggered the release based on a pre-approved profile on file.
Status and Phase-Out (Truck)
Discontinuation for Highway Mode
As part of the Truck Manifest Modernization (TMM) initiative, CBP has officially discontinued support for BRASS for highway carriers.
- Effective Date: The phase-out began on March 8, 2022, as TMM rolled out across all U.S. land border ports.
- C4 Code Support: The C4 code is no longer supported for truck shipments. Filers attempting to use BRASS will receive a reject message.
- Rail Exception: This discontinuation applies only to truck; BRASS for rail remained unaffected by the initial TMM notice.
- Alternative Methods: Carriers and importers must now use alternative entry methods, most commonly PAPS (Entry Type 01 or 11) or ACE In-Bond.
Historical Reporting in ACE eManifest
Before the phase-out, BRASS shipments were required to be declared on an ACE eManifest. While the process is now legacy for trucks, it functioned similarly to modern shipments in BorderConnect.
Data Elements Previously Required
To report a BRASS shipment, the carrier provided:
- Shipment Control Number (SCN): A unique identifier for the movement.
- C4 Line Release Number: The specific code provided by the importer or broker.
- Standard Cargo Data: Full Shipper, Consignee, and Commodity information.
Comparison with PAPS
Unlike PAPS, where the broker must file an entry in response to the carrier's shipment, BRASS was a "pre-filed" profile. The broker would be notified that the shipment took place, but no further immediate action was required at the time of crossing to facilitate the release.
References