ACAS & PACT: The USA and Canada Introduce New Regulations for Air Cargo Transport
CCS inside · Blog
USA: ACAS (Air Cargo Advance Screening)
ACAS is a programme introduced by the CBP to enhance air cargo security. The programme requires all airlines transporting commercial freight to the U.S. to submit specific information about this freight in advance to the CBP.
Why does ACAS exist?
The goal of ACAS is to identify potentially dangerous shipments before they are loaded onto the aircraft, thereby improving safety in air transport. By submitting data early, U.S. authorities can conduct risk assessments and carry out more targeted checks.
How does ACAS work?
- Data Submission: Before loading the cargo, airlines must submit a set of data to CBP, including information about the sender, the recipient, the contents of the shipment, the flight path, and other relevant details.
- Data Analysis: CBP evaluates the submitted data and compares it against its databases. Algorithms are also used to identify potential risks.
- Risk Assessment: Based on the data analysis, a risk assessment is conducted. Shipments deemed high-risk may undergo additional checks.
What does ACAS mean for businesses?
For companies exporting goods to the U.S., ACAS means that they must comply with additional requirements. Shippers must collect detailed information about their shipments and submit it in a specified format. Any deviation or inaccuracy in the data submitted may lead to delays in customs clearance, and in some cases, the rejection of the shipment. Freight forwarders must ensure that all mandatory data for each sender and recipient is submitted in advance. Particularly, accurate cargo descriptions must be recorded and sent to CBP.
What data must be submitted for ACAS?
The specific data requirements for ACAS may vary depending on the country and its regulations. Generally, the following information must be provided:
- Sender Data: Name, address, contact information
- Recipient Data: Name, address, contact information
- Cargo Description: A detailed description of the goods, including Harmonised System (HS) codes for precise classification. Vague terms such as "gift" or "parts" should be avoided. List of accepted and unaccepted freight descriptions
- Weight and Dimensions: Total weight and dimensions of the shipment
- Piece Count: Total number of individual items
- Country of Origin: The country where the goods are coming from
- Destination: The country to which the goods are being transported
- Flight Path: Planned flight route
- Air Waybill Number: Both house and master air waybill numbers
The requirements may change and should be regularly checked for updates.
What sanctions are imposed for violations of ACAS?
- Customs Clearance Delays: Incorrect or incomplete information can lead to longer processing times.
- Shipment Rejection: In severe cases, the shipment may be rejected and returned.
- Fines: Significant penalties may be imposed.
- Reputation Damage: Repeated violations can damage a company's reputation and result in business losses.
- Legal Consequences: In some cases, legal action may be taken.
Canada: PACT (Pre-load Air Cargo Targeting)
PACT, short for Pre-load Air Cargo Targeting, is a security system introduced by the Canadian government to enhance air cargo security. Like ACAS, it aims to identify potentially dangerous shipments before they are loaded onto an aircraft, thereby minimizing risks.
How does PACT work?
1 – Data Submission
- Pre-information: Before a shipment is loaded onto an aircraft, detailed information about the cargo must be submitted to Canadian authorities. This includes details about the sender, recipient, type of goods, weight, flight path, and other relevant data.
- Electronic Submission: The data is typically submitted electronically through a specialised system.
2 – Risk Assessment
- Data Analysis: The submitted data is analysed by a computer program, which considers factors such as the country of origin, destination country, type of goods, and previous experiences with similar shipments.
- Risk Classification: Based on the analysis, a risk assessment is made. Shipments classified as high-risk are subject to further examination.
3 – Targeted Inspections
- Additional Checks: Shipments identified as high-risk may undergo additional security checks. This could include a physical inspection of the cargo or questioning of the sender or recipient.
Conclusion
ACAS and PACT present a new challenge for shippers and freight forwarders, requiring adjustments to existing processes. However, with early planning and close collaboration with airlines, these challenges can be managed, and the impact on delivery times minimised. CCS-Express is prepared for the new requirements and supports its customers in providing the necessary information.
Would you like to ship your US freight without delays despite ACAS and PACT?
Get in touch with us.
Sources:
CCS-Express GmbH (MUC)
Lilienthalstrasse 8
D-85399 Hallbergmoos
Germany