CBP Now Rejecting Vague Cargo Descriptions in ACAS

CBP vague Descriptions

As international shipping continues to evolve, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has officially begun enforcing stricter rules on the accuracy of cargo descriptions in the Air Cargo Advance Screening (ACAS) program. As of October 7, 2024, carriers and other stakeholders submitting ACAS data must ensure that the descriptions of their cargo are precise and transparent. Vague terms such as “gift,” “daily necessities,” “accessories,” “parts,” and “consolidated” (except at the master bill level) are now unacceptable, and submissions with such descriptions will be rejected.

This heightened enforcement highlights the need for clear, accurate reporting in the supply chain, which can significantly affect shipping timelines and compliance with U.S. regulations. Here’s an overview of this policy and what you need to do to avoid shipment rejections.

Vague Descriptions Now Lead to Immediate Rejections

CBP has identified the use of vague terms in ACAS submissions as a growing issue, making it difficult for authorities to accurately assess the contents of a shipment. Terms like “parts” or “consolidated” fail to provide enough detail, creating security risks and hindering proper customs processes.

Initially, CBP introduced a 30-day warning period, during which filers submitting vague descriptions were notified daily via email. Now, as of October 7, 2024, any ACAS submission with such descriptions will be rejected outright, marking a significant shift from warnings to strict enforcement. This could result in costly delays for international shipments if issues are not addressed promptly.

To comply with these regulations, shippers, carriers, and other stakeholders must review and update their data submission processes to ensure descriptions are specific and meet CBP’s standards. ACAS filers are responsible for reviewing shipment data, ensuring it is compliant, and addressing any flagged descriptions by collaborating with shippers and bill-of-lading issuers to make necessary corrections.

CBP has warned that continued non-compliance could result in more serious enforcement actions, including additional scrutiny of future shipments and potential penalties.

Examples of Vague Descriptions to Avoid

While the list provided by CBP is not exhaustive, the following terms should be avoided in ACAS submissions:

  • Gift
  • Daily necessities
  • Accessories
  • Parts
  • Consolidated (acceptable only at the master bill level)

Instead, filers should use detailed descriptions that specify the items being shipped. For instance, instead of “parts,” more precise language like “automobile engine components” or “electronic device components” should be used. Similarly, instead of “accessories,” detailed descriptions such as “leather phone cases” or “wireless earbud chargers” should be provided.

How to Stay Compliant?

To avoid shipment rejections and additional enforcement actions, ACAS filers should take the following steps:

  • Review cargo descriptions carefully before submission to ensure they comply with CBP’s standards.
  • Work closely with shippers and bill of lading issuers to provide accurate and specific details about the cargo.
  • Implement internal review processes to catch vague descriptions early and correct them before submission.
  • Train staff and partners involved in the ACAS submission process to understand the importance of precision in cargo descriptions.

Being proactive about compliance can prevent unnecessary delays and disruptions in the shipping process.

How GLC Can Help

Navigating these new regulations can be challenging, but Global Logistical Connections (GLC) is here to assist. Our team of experts can help review your ACAS submissions and ensure that your cargo descriptions meet CBP’s standards. Don’t let vague descriptions hold up your shipments—contact us today to ensure smooth, compliant operations.