eManifest (ACI) requirements for commercial imports

Carriers and shippers can ensure a smooth journey across the Canadian border by utilizing the Advance Commercial Information (ACI) program's eManifest submission. In addition to advance Customs information, Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) also requires advance cargo information for shipments for security screening. Importers and shippers can comply with requirements through the ACI eManifest portal or consider using the services of an eManifest service provider.

Clear, plain language cargo descriptions and accurate shipment data helps the CBSA understand the items in your cargo, supporting efficient import processing and risk assessment efforts. Providing accurate details and descriptions in an ACI eManifest keeps your goods moving to their Canadian destination.

What information is required for ACI eManifests?

Carriers need to provide electronic cargo and conveyance data to the CBSA in advance of their arrival at the Canadian border. Shippers are encouraged to assist carriers by providing all Customs commercial invoice information about their shipments bound for Canada. This information includes:

• The name and address of the shipper
• The name and address of the consignee
• The name and address of the delivery destination, if different from the consignee
• A description of the cargo, packaging type, and quantity
• The gross weight of the shipment
• The info for Customs Self-Assessment (CSA), if applicable

What ACI eManifest data is required for truck shipments?

The CBSA requires additional data for ACI eManifest submissions when goods cross the border in truck shipments. In addition to shipping, consignee, and cargo details, truck shipments require these additional details:

• The vehicle identification number (VIN) of the truck carrying the shipment
• The license plate details for the vehicle
• The passport number of the driver
• The commercial driver’s license (CDL) number
• The driver’s Free and Secure Trade (FAST) card

What is an acceptable cargo description?

Detailed cargo descriptions help CBSA identify the size, shape, and overall characteristics of the cargo shipment. Acceptable cargo descriptions provide sufficient detail to clearly and concisely describe the goods.

For example, “ladies’ apparel” wouldn’t be acceptable as a cargo description due to the lack of specific information about the goods. However, “women’s dresses” could be acceptable because it provides sufficient detail about the type of apparel in the shipment. Similarly, “appliances” would be an unacceptable description while “refrigerator” could work.

CBSA provides an accessible guide that includes a chart that shows importers examples of acceptable cargo descriptions for commonly imported goods.

ACI eManifest descriptions for consolidated shipments

Consolidated shipments – shipments that expect a house bill or a supplementary cargo report to follow – can provide cargo descriptions that differ from a typical description. For example, the following may be allowed on a consolidated cargo document:

• Freight of all kinds (FAK)
• Shipper load and count (SLC)
• Consolidated
• General merchandise
• Other general and non-specific descriptions

A detailed description of goods must be included on the electronic house bill or supplementary document provided.

Efficient import compliance processes keep your goods moving

Submitting an accurate ACI eManifest is a mandatory part of successfully importing goods into Canada. Providing inaccurate product descriptions or shipment data to the CBSA can result in non-compliance with import regulations. This can result in delays, additional examinations of your shipments into Canada, and even penalties under the Administrative Monetary Penalty System (AMPS). 

Cole has more than a half century of experience in customs brokering and freight forwarding for Canadian imports. Our team of freight and customs leaders are ready to help keep your goods moving swiftly and efficiently by getting all the details right. Connect with us today!

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