CBP Seeks Nine Trucking Carriers for Electronic Export Manifest Test

U.S. Customs and Border Protection is recruiting nine motor carriers for a voluntary test of electronic truck export manifests. Land Line Media reported September 25 that the Automated Commercial Environment Electronic Export Manifest for Truck Cargo Test will evaluate whether earlier digital filings can improve freight flow, cargo security and export-law compliance at U.S. border crossings. The program is expected to run for approximately two years.

Selected carriers will transmit a limited initial data set through CBP's Automated Commercial Environment at least 24 hours before the truck departs the United States. A complete export manifest would then be due no later than two hours before arrival at the final port of export. CBP says the earlier information could support risk assessment and targeted inspections before cargo is loaded, potentially reducing examinations after loading and avoiding related delays.

The opportunity is open to carriers regardless of company size, location or commodity, but applicants must be able to submit the required information electronically through ACE. CBP will evaluate the test before deciding whether to extend, expand or modify it. Participation does not make electronic truck export manifests a universal requirement today; the test is intended to provide operational evidence for future decisions.

Cross-border fleets considering the program should assess their dispatch, customs and technology workflows before applying. Data must move accurately from the shipper and broker into the carrier's filing process, with responsibility assigned for corrections and final submission. Carriers should also confirm that the test fits their regular export lanes and that staff can meet the 24-hour and two-hour milestones. Early participation could provide practical experience with a process that CBP may use more broadly, but it also requires disciplined data quality, secure access controls and reliable coordination at every shipment handoff.