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Printable Version Advance Commercial Information (ACI)
Advance Commercial Information (ACI)
- What is Advance Commercial Information (ACI)?
- To identify and prevent potential security, terrorist and contraband threat and increase border security, government agencies have developed systems to electronically obtain advance commercial information (i.e., cargo and conveyance data). The development will be accomplished in phases - based on the import and export transportation mode (i.e., ocean, air, truck and rail). Ultimately, the completed systems will enable regulatory agencies to better assess potential import and export risks.
- What are the fundamental principles of ACI?
- 100% electronic pre-arrival transmission of key data elements from carriers, freight forwarders and importers.
- Automated risk assessment support with integrated targeting for all risks related to health, safety and security.
- Health, safely and security threats will be dealt with at the first point of arrival or at foreign port.
- Goal is to release or examine goods at the first point of arrival.
- What can the shipper do to ensure that they meet these new regulatory requirements?
The shipper must provide a valid commodity description so that the carrier can transmit the required shipping information prior to shipment arrival.
A good description should answer the following questions:
- What is it?
- How many?
- What is it made from?
- What is its intended use?
Poor Description (too vague) Good Description (specific and detailed) Parts Two steel springs for woodworking machine Gift One men's knitted sweater (100% cotton) - unsolicited gift Samples 200cm x 400cm nylon carpet sample for demonstration Documents 30 pages of legal documents Food The word Food (or FS) should be the first word in the description followed by a detailed description of the food items. (e.g., FOOD - one can of sliced peaches) See Commercial Invoice Provide a good summary of all items. The description on the air waybill or shipping label should be as detailed as possible. - What will happen if the shipper doesn't provide the necessary information?
- This could result in possible delays or refusal by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA). FedEx will contact the importer or consignee for additional information, if needed.
- What are the FedEx timeframes for implementation?
- FedEx Express will comply by June 26, 2006 with new regulatory requirements.
- What shipments are affected by these new regulatory requirements?
- For this phase of Canada ACI, the CSBA will require advance regulatory shipping information for all shipments that are not classified as Low Value Shipments (LVS) (i.e., valued less than CAD$1600 and goods that do not require processing by other government agencies, regardless of value).
- How does this new regulation affect the customs clearance process?
- This new customs requirement is in addition to the clearance process and must be satisfied before the goods can be released from the clearance process for pickup or delivery.
- Will this new regulatory requirement affect shipments that are held for pickup at a FedEx station?
- Yes, it could affect shipments that are held for pickup at a FedEx station. Please visit fedex.ca or call FedEx Customer Service at 1.800.GoFedEx 1.800.463.3339 to ensure that your shipment has been released by customs.
- How is FedEx ensuring ongoing compliance with the new regulatory requirements?
- FedEx is modifying internal systems, policies and procedures as needed to ensure regulatory compliance to maintain the highest possible level of security and service. FedEx will be updating its FedEx Ship Manager® systems, and amending the international air waybills where applicable as well as training employees on the new requirements.
- Where can I get more information?
Contact Gina Estabillo of the FedEx Express Regulatory Affairs department via e-mail at gina.estabillo@fedex.ca or call 905.212.5367.