What Cross-Border Supplies Do I Need And What Are PARS Barcode Labels (DIY Customs Consulting)
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🔖 This article is part of the Customs Compliance Guide |
Crossing into Canada: Documents & Labels
A guide to the physical paperwork and barcodes required for commercial trucks entering Canada.
Overview
Crossing into Canada as a commercial highway carrier requires more than just electronic data; drivers must physically present specific barcoded documents to the CBSA officer at the booth.
While the electronic ACI eManifest sends the data ahead of time, the physical barcodes (PARS labels or Lead Sheets) are the "handshake" that allows the officer to pull up that data on their screen.
BorderConnect Tip: Drivers do not need to buy expensive software to print lead sheets. They can be printed directly from BorderConnect, or you can order sticky labels from BorderPrint.
PARS Barcode Labels
The Pre-Arrival Review System (PARS) is the standard release option for commercial goods. The "PARS Number" is essentially the Cargo Control Number (CCN) for the shipment.
How it Works
- Structure: A PARS number consists of your 4-character Carrier Code followed by a unique sequence (e.g.,
8080-12345). - Usage: The carrier applies a physical PARS barcode label to the Commercial Invoice or Bill of Lading.
- The Process: The driver hands this stamped invoice to the officer. The officer scans the barcode, which links to the broker's release entry and the carrier's ACI eManifest.
ACI eManifest Lead Sheets
An ACI Lead Sheet is a document printed on standard paper that contains the barcodes for the trip. It is often used as an alternative or supplement to sticky PARS labels.
What's on a Lead Sheet?
- Trip Barcode (CRN): Represents the truck/trailer movement.
- Cargo Barcode (CCN): Represents the shipment (PARS).
- Summary Data: Port of crossing, ETA, and truck/trailer numbers.
Why use it? Many drivers prefer a single sheet that summarizes the whole load rather than handling multiple invoices with stickers. It can be printed, faxed, or emailed directly to the driver from BorderConnect.
Specialized Documents
If the shipment is not a standard PARS release, specific forms are required:
| Document | Usage Scenario |
|---|---|
| A8A Form (Cargo Control Document) |
In-Bond Shipments: Required when goods are not clearing at the border (e.g., moving inland to a bonded warehouse). The driver presents a paper A8A form with a barcode to allow the movement. |
| A8B Form (In-Transit Manifest) |
United States -> Canada -> United States: Required when a Canadian bonded carrier moves U.S. goods through Canada to re-enter the U.S. (e.g., Detroit to Buffalo via Ontario). This 4-part form controls the goods while in Canada. |
| CSA Lead Sheet |
Trusted Traders: Required when both the carrier and importer are CSA (Customs Self Assessment) approved, and the driver is FAST/CDRP registered. This sheet identifies the trusted trader status. |
Where to Get Supplies
Carriers have two main options for generating these documents:
- BorderConnect Software: Generate and print ACI Lead Sheets, A8A forms, and CSA leads sheets directly from your eManifest data. Start Free Trial
- BorderPrint: Order rolls of sticky PARS labels, A8A forms, and A8B forms to be shipped to your office. Order Online