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Descartes ACI Forwarder eManifest
The eManifest initiative is the third phase of the Canada Border Services Agency’s (CBSA) Advance Commercial Information (ACI) program. ACI is about getting the right information at the right time to the CBSA to enhance the agency’s ability to identify potential threats to Canada while facilitating the movement of low-risk shipments across the border.
Freight forwarders are now responsible for submitting house-level Bill of Lading (BOL) information electronically to the CBSA. As a global leader in compliance and forwarder enterprise solutions, Descartes provides a robust and user-friendly solution for forwarders that facilitates forwarder compliance with the latest filing mandates.
Filing Deadlines for ACI Information
The mode-specific deadlines for filing ACI information to CBSA include:
| Marine | Air |
|---|---|
| 24-hours prior to loading or arrival¹ | 4-hours prior to arrival or at time of departure |
| Rail | Highway |
|---|---|
| 2-hours prior to arrival | 1-hour prior to arrival |
A Multi-Tiered Approach Toward Success
The Descartes ACI Forwarder eManifest™ solution is based on a three-tiered approach for enabling compliance.
Document Management
In addition to timing CBSA submissions based on mode of transport, filers are also required to maintain a record of their submissions for up to 6 years from the date of transmission. CBSA has noted that their portal may not be used as a means for record-keeping². The agency has also stated that freight forwarders are responsible for establishing their own effective record management system to comply with the regulation.
Validation and Visibility
Ensuring the accuracy of data submitted to the CBSA is also the responsibility of the forwarder. With penalties for non-compliance enforceable by Canada’s Administrative Monetary Penalty System (AMPS), data accuracy is the cornerstone of compliance. The Descartes ACI Forwarder eManifest solution includes a thorough data validation engine that helps to highlight potential errors both during data entry and prior to transmission.
Collaboration and Data Sharing
The Descartes ACI Forwarder eManifest solution places you at the center of information management. You can not only access data online but can also share information with the business partners and customers you enable. The end result is enhanced visibility and added connectivity which can contribute to improved operational productivity.
Access and Connectivity Options
Descartes offers users a choice of flexible access and connectivity options to facilitate compliance including:
- Option 1 – An advanced, tightly-integrated, system-to-system EDI connection
- Option 2 – For customers who cannot create an electronic, structured message or who prefer manual data entry, Descartes also offers web-based options that allow users to key-in information
Potential Benefits
- Leverage Descartes Global Logistics Network™ (Descartes GLN™) to distribute Customs messages and status information to clients
With Descartes ACI Forwarder eManifest, freight forwarders can:
- Comply with the ACI requirements
- Attain global visibility with real-time access to cargo statuses
- Reduce the risk of errors, delays and possible penalties
- Improve efficiency and productivity by leveraging a single point of access
Features
- Flexible, Template-based Architecture: The Descartes ACI Forwarder eManifest solution includes a template-driven interface to jumpstart data entry. Authorized users can add, modify and delete templates to adapt to the unique needs of their business and drive-up efficiency.
- Advanced Search & Query Functionality: An intuitive search functionality helps to accelerate customer service and mirrors the same basic fields commonly found in trade documentation, including Bills of Lading (BOLs), container number, port of origin, and more.
- Information Privacy: As part of Descartes GLN, all information is securely transmitted, protecting the privacy of all parties.
¹ Depending on the type and origin of goods.
² CBSA FAQ