BorderConnect Onboarding and Readiness Guide
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🔖 This article is part of the BorderConnect Software User Guide and the Customs Compliance Guide |
Getting Started: Cross-Border Prerequisites
A complete roadmap for highway carriers to obtain carrier codes, SCACs, and barcode labels before registering for eManifest software.
Overview
Before you can begin transmitting electronic manifests to border agencies, you must first establish your company's identity with both the Canadian and U.S. governments and acquire the physical barcode labels required by customs brokers.
This guide walks new highway carriers through every prerequisite step to become legally compliant and ready to implement BorderConnect software.
Two Systems, Two Identifiers
Entering Canada (CBSA): Requires a 4-character Carrier Code and PARS barcode labels.
Entering the U.S. (CBP): Requires a 4-letter SCAC and PAPS barcode labels.
🚀 Quick Readiness Checklist
| Country | Government System | What You Must Have Ready |
|---|---|---|
| Canada | CBSA ACI eManifest | Carrier Code, CARM Portal access, PARS Barcode Labels |
| United States | CBP ACE Manifest | SCAC Code, PAPS Barcode Labels |
Once these government and physical requirements are met, you can register for your software.
Phase 1: Canadian Requirements (CBSA)
1 Obtain a CBSA Carrier Code
A Carrier Code is a four-character unique identifier required by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) for all highway carriers crossing into Canada. You must request this code directly through the CBSA Assessment and Revenue Management (CARM) 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 an existing carrier code, simply ensure it is linked to your new CARM business account.
Phase 2: U.S. Requirements (CBP)
2 Obtain a SCAC Code
To cross commercially into the United States, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) strictly requires all carriers to possess a Standard Carrier Alpha Code (SCAC). This is a unique two-to-four-letter code used to identify transportation companies.
- The SCAC is assigned and maintained by the National Motor Freight Traffic Association (NMFTA).
- Apply for your SCAC online directly through the NMFTA portal.
- Note that SCAC codes must be renewed annually to remain active and valid in CBP systems.
Phase 3: Ordering Cross-Border Barcodes (PARS & PAPS)
Electronic manifests alone are not enough to cross the border. You must physically affix sequential barcode labels to your commercial invoices and Bills of Lading (BOL). These scannable barcodes are what the customs broker uses to file the entry, and what the border officer scans to release the truck.
🇨🇦 Entering Canada: PARS Labels
The Pre-Arrival Review System (PARS) is the default clearance method for commercial goods entering Canada. The PARS barcode label consists of your 4-character CBSA Carrier Code followed by a unique, sequential shipment number.
- Workflow: You affix this label to the commercial invoice and send it to the Canadian customs broker so they can set up the shipment with the CBSA in advance.
🇺🇸 Entering USA: PAPS Labels
The Pre-Arrival Processing System (PAPS) is the default shipment type for commercial goods entering the United States. The PAPS barcode label begins with your 4-letter SCAC code, followed by a unique sequential number.
- Workflow: You affix this label to the paperwork and send it to the U.S. customs broker so they can file an entry referencing that exact PAPS number before you arrive.
Where to Order Compliant Labels
To ensure your barcodes scan correctly at the primary inspection booth and comply with all CBSA and CBP specifications, you must order them from a certified printer.
BorderPrint specializes in cross-border print essentials. You can easily order CBSA-approved PARS labels and CBP-approved PAPS labels (available in sheets, rolls, or even digital formats for rush orders) and have them shipped next-day directly to your dispatch office.
Phase 4: Ready for BorderConnect
Once you have successfully obtained your CBSA Carrier Code, your NMFTA SCAC code, and have ordered your physical PARS and PAPS barcode labels from BorderPrint, you have completed all mandatory government and physical prerequisites.
You are now fully prepared to set up your eManifest software, enter your company credentials, and begin transmitting electronic trips directly to the border agencies to clear your freight.
Next Step: Proceed to the Registering With BorderConnect guide to set up your account and start your free trial.
References