The Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is introducing a new communication strategy aimed at clarifying ambiguous cargo descriptions within shipment filings, according to a CSMS announcement made on April 1. This initiative seeks to tackle the issue of unclear cargo descriptors such as “gift,” “daily necessities,” “accessories,” “parts,” and “consolidated” items, with the term “consolidated” being permissible solely at the master bill level.
This communication will primarily occur through the ACE Cargo Release system, post-cargo release, as detailed by the CBP. The expectation set forth for brokers and importers is to engage with shippers and the issuers of the bill of lading to rectify discrepancies for future shipments to ensure compliance. Furthermore, those who file house bills, including brokers and freight forwarders, are required to adhere to the same compliance standards as carriers, involving thorough screening of data against cargo declaration norms. The CBP emphasizes the necessity for entry filers to examine these cargo messages diligently for adherence, with immediate corrective measures anticipated in cases where the entry filer is also the bill of lading filer. Additionally, the CBP has indicated that it may undertake further actions if any enforcement issues are detected.
