CBSA Updates ASECC Pilot Program for Arctic Shipping Reporting and Clearance

The ASECC pilot program’s electronic reporting and clearance will help low-risk carriers and vessels operating in Arctic waters improve their efficiency and reduce administrative burdens.

The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) has launched an update on the Arctic Shipping Electronic Commercial Clearances (ASECC) pilot program. This is a significant step towards streamlining the reporting and clearance process for low-risk carriers and vessels operating in Arctic waters. The program represents a forward-thinking approach to modernizing and enhancing the efficiency of commercial shipping in the Arctic.

This ASECC pilot program, detailed in Customs Notice 24-19, was developed to enhance the efficiency of commercial shipping in some of Canada’s most remote regions. It enables pre-approved low-risk carriers and vessels to electronically report and clear conveyance, crew, and cargo to meet the reporting requirements.

Low-risk carriers and vessels involved in Arctic shipping can benefit significantly from the ASECC pilot program, which allows them to utilize electronic reporting and clearance to reduce administrative burdens and speed up processing times. However, compliance with the submission timelines and regulations is crucial to avoid disruptions.

Key Highlights of the ASECC Pilot Program

Electronic reporting and clearance

The ASECC pilot program allows pre-approved low-risk carriers to report and clear conveyance, crew, and cargo electronically, meeting the reporting requirements under the Customs Act. This electronic system aims to simplify the process, reducing the need for physical reporting at CBSA-designated Commercial Vessel (C/VESS) ports.

Two-part approval process

• Part 1: Carriers must submit a Business Profile Application (form BSF786) by June 30^th to qualify for the program. The application is to be sent to nunavut_clearance@cbsa-asfc.gc.ca, with a copy to the CBSA National Targeting Centre. The ASECC season runs from July 1^st of the application year to June 30^th of the following year.
  
  
• Part 2: The Pre-Arrival Notice (PAN), Advance Commercial Information (ACI) for cargo and conveyance, crew information, and Voyage Information form must be submitted seven days before departure from the foreign port. This submission is critical for the final approval, determining whether the vessel can proceed directly to the Arctic.

Reporting requirements and compliance

Carriers participating in the ASECC program must still adhere to the reporting requirements under the Customs Act. Any changes in crew or cargo after the seven-day submission window will necessitate physical reporting at a designated C/VESS port.

Advance submission for goods

For goods subject to Other Government Department (OGD) requirements, importers must submit a release request and necessary documents seven days before the vessel’s departure. The CBSA recommends this practice for all goods to avoid delays and ensure a smooth clearance process.

Restrictions and exclusions

The program currently excludes carriers transporting containerized cargo, who must continue reporting to the nearest designated CBSA office.

How to qualify for the ASECC pilot program

You may be eligible for ASECC if you:

• Operate as a commercial cargo carrier
• Hold a minimum $25,000 CBSA surety bond
• Do not act as an agent for other marine carriers
• Have no history of contraband or major commercial violations
• Can demonstrate that reporting to a designated C/VESS port is either cost-prohibitive or impractical for your vessels
• Can maintain control of cargo shipments until they reach their Arctic destination
• Commit to providing the CBSA with Advance Commercial Information (ACI) for cargo, conveyance, and crew details seven days before the vessel departs from the foreign port
  
  Note: If ACI is required earlier than seven days before departure, the regulated ACI timeframes must be followed.

Please contact one of our trade professionals to learn more about the program and ensure compliance with its requirements.