Client Advisory: New Data Required for U.S. Imports

U.S. Customs Border Protection (CBP) and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) have issued new Air Cargo Advance Screening (ACAS) Data Elements impacting air freight shipments traveling to or through the United States. While CBP and TSA have not yet advised a firm date when shipments will be rejected without this data, SEKO and our air carrier partners are working to implement these requirements immediately to ensure the smooth movement of our clients’ freight.

One of the most important elements is the description of the goods, which must be specific and cannot be overly vague.

Bad/vague description which will be rejected: Clothing

Good description: Women’s short sleeve dress, cotton/polyester

In addition, CBP and TSA will require the email address and phone numbers for both the shipper and the consignee.

Action: All SEKO clients are requested to ensure that detailed merchandise descriptions are provided for all shipments and to begin or continue providing the email address and phone number for the shipper and consignee for all shipments. This requirement will be enforced by CBP and TSA as of 7 October 2024. Clients are requested to begin sending this additional data immediately but no later than 7 October 2024.