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Customer Support
General QuestionsAdvance Cargo InformationTo find a quick answer to one of the Frequently Asked Questions listed below, click on that question. Top Questions
General QuestionsGeneral QuestionsWhat is Advance Cargo Information (ACI)?As mandated by section 343(a) of the Trade Act of 2002, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) now requires truck carriers to electronically transmit information regarding cargo entering the United States at least one hour prior to reaching the first port of entry. This advance information must be submitted via e-Manifest or the Pre-Arrival Processing System (PAPS).Advance information for shipments that qualify for the Free and Secure Trade (FAST) program must be submitted through the CBP-approved EDI system at least 30 minutes prior to the carrier reaching the first port of entry. What are the penalties for not complying with CBP's reporting requirements?CBP implemented the reporting requirements using a phased-in approach. Enforcement began December 15, 2004. If the carrier does not comply, the fine may be as much as $5000 for the first violation and $10,000 for each subsequent violation.How far in advance does cargo information need to be received by FedEx Trade Networks for processing?In order to meet CBP's 1-hour requirement and allow sufficient time for processing, we request that paperwork be faxed or e-mailed (only TIFF or PDF format can be accepted) at least 3 HOURS prior to the carrier reaching the border. This timeframe will help ensure sufficient time for FedEx Trade Networks to receive, process and transmit cargo information to CBP in compliance with the 1-hour requirement. In some rare instances due to shipment complexity, and length of processing time required, we may request additional lead time.Confirmation of fax or e-mail receipt by FedEx Trade Networks does not constitute arrival approval by CBP. It is your responsibility to verify, prior to arrival at the border, that your cargo data has been accepted by CBP. How do I obtain the FTN Pre-arrival Notification Fax Coversheet?The FedEx Trade Networks Pre-arrival Notification Fax Coversheet is available under Other Forms, an electronic version by e-mail may be obtained by calling 1.716.879.1077, in addition hard copies of the coversheet are available for carriers at the various border release offices at the ports of entry.What happens to the paperwork once it is faxed or e-mailed to FedEx Trade Networks?1. The faxed or e-mailed documents are entered into our Image system where they are electronically sorted and assigned for processing. This system allows you to use one centralized fax number or e-mail address, regardless of the shipment's border crossing location.2. FedEx Trade Networks personnel will check for any missing data elements on the coversheet and verify that all required documents are present and legible. If any required information or paperwork is missing, FedEx Trade Networks will attempt to resolve the discrepancies to meet the reporting timeframes. However, due to the nature of our 24/7 operation, FedEx Trade Networks may not be successful in making contact with the shipper or the carrier to resolve the issue. Processing cannot be completed until all required information and paperwork is obtained. 3. If the coversheet is properly filled out and all documentation is present and legible and there are no compliance concerns, the documents will be processed and the shipment data will be transmitted to CBP for entry. Paperwork is processed on a first-in-first-out basis with consideration given to estimated time of arrival (ETA). Back to Top Is fax my only option for sending documents?No. Documents can also be e-mailed to BPA@ftn.fedex.com. Please follow these procedures:1. Documents must be scanned using an interface that supports the creation of multi-page TIFF files (.tif) or PDF (.pdf). 2. When scanning documents, each pre-arrival shipment must include the FedEx Trade Networks FAX coversheet as the separator. The fax coversheet must be filled out with pertinent pre-arrival information. If this coversheet is not included in the multi-page TIFF or PDF scan packet; your shipment could be delayed. 3. Send the multi-page TIFF or PDF file as an attachment to BPA@ftn.fedex.com. Please note that timely delivery of inbound internet e-mail is not guaranteed and there are many contributing factors that can lead to the delay of e-mail messages before they reach the FedEx Trade Networks mail servers. What is the easiest way to confirm that my paperwork has been processed and accepted by CBP?The easiest and most convenient way to check that your shipment has been cleared is through My Global Trade Data. It is a web-based tool that gives you instant access to real-time shipment status 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and is the earliest reference information available.From anywhere on the ftn.fedex.com website click on the Track tab and select Quick Find. On this screen, plug the PAPS code into the Master Waybill field. This will give you real-time information. On the Quick Find results page, look under the CBP Advance notice confirmed field to see if the shipment has been cleared. If you experience problems accessing the Quick Find page, call 1.716.879.1077 to confirm that your shipment has been accepted by CBP. Please allow at least one hour after faxing before calling to confirm. Please note: it is the carrier's responsibility to confirm that paperwork has been received by FedEx Trade Networks, transmitted to CBP, and accepted by CBP. Are there any suggestions for improving processing time and reducing chances of error?Yes. Document legibility has a direct bearing on processing. To avoid delays and incorrect entry of data, please provide the highest quality document available. Avoid small fonts, poor copies and colored paper if at all possible.Can FedEx Trade Networks help with meeting e-Manifest requirements?Yes. Please contact Trish Defrain (1.810.966.3607 patricia_defrain@ftn.fedex.com) or Mike Niemic (1.810.966.3603 mike_niemic@ftn.fedex.com) for additional details. Back to Top |
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