UPDATE 06/13/17: Customs has set an effective date for ACE- read here for more.
Customs and Border Protection’s digital system – the “Automated Commercial Environment” (ACE) is only partially implemented. The U.S. trade community has long been aware of Customs and Border Protection (CBP)’s goal to become a paperless automated system. The original goal was to be implemented by the end of 2016, when ACE would become the single window – the primary system through which the trade community will submit documentation for the government to determine admissibility. ACE was created to minimize paper documentation and will allow government agencies to share information to promote the trade process.
Transition Postponed
CBP implemented deadlines to help industry get on board with ACE. As of January 14, 2017, CBP will post Notices of Liquidation on its website. However, digital implementation for several other Customs-based portions of import information (including reconciliation, liquidation, duty deferral, drawback, collections, and statements) has been postponed. CBP has not provided a new target date.
We expect continued growing pains through the implementation of ACE, particularly affecting the inclusion of other federal agencies:
- Even once all agencies are included, we expect there will be some delays in document processing.
- Some agencies may require more training on analysis and troubleshooting for the new system.
- Not all users will have easy access to CBP for errors and problem solving.
These points are crucial for the importers and exporters who are legally responsible for any filings submitted through ACE. It is vital for everyone to stay up to date on Customs’ communications regarding ACE – especially in ensuring that their customs brokers are maintaining safeguards for any possible corrections.
For questions and concerns regarding this information please contact us.
