Customs' Guidance Concerning 24-Hour Advance Vessel Manifest Rule

August 14, 2003

Recently, the Bureau of Customs and Border Protection (CBP) posted on its Web site guidance regarding the implementation of its final rule on the presentation of cargo manifests to CBP 24 hours prior to ocean vessel lading at foreign ports, also known as the 24-hour rule. On February 2, 2003, CBP began implementation of its 24-hour rule enforcement strategy, which included the issuance of "Do Not Load" messages for egregious violation of manifest descriptions.

As of May 4, 2003, CBP ports will be responsible for initiating "Do Not Load" messages for cargo whenever an "invalid" cargo description is used. These selected non-compliant cargo targets will be referred to the National Targeting Center (NTC) for coordination of the issuance of the "Do Not Load" message to the carrier or NVOCC. On its Web site, CBP has listed invalid and valid cargo descriptions in Frequently Asked Question (FAQ) number 30. This list is illustrative, not exhaustive, it contains examples of acceptable and unacceptable descriptions. Customs seeks that the carrier/NVOCC input the valid description in the cargo description field and no other, including marks and numbers. CBP is also encouraging that the relevant description of cargo be placed in the beginning of the first or second description line of the manifest, or the HTS field, as appropriate.

Additionally, as of May 4, 2003, CBP ports will be authorized to issue monetary penalties for egregious violations of timeliness. Seaports will be responsible for the review and enforcement of the timeliness of cargo declaration submissions. The selection of targets will be coordinated through the NTC. The issuance of penalties will also be coordinated and approved by Headquarters.