ACE Electronic Export Manifest truck cargo test opens October 23, 2026
CBP invites truck carriers into a voluntary ACE Electronic Export Manifest test. Who should apply, the dual filing clock, data elements, and how it coexists with USPPI EEI under 19 CFR 192.14.
On September 23, 2026, CBP published a Federal Register notice announcing a voluntary ACE Electronic Export Manifest (EEM) for Truck Cargo Test. The cite is 91 FR 60383 (Document 2026-19414). The test starts October 23, 2026 and runs about two years.
Today, truck carriers are not required to file an export manifest. USPPIs still file EEI under 19 CFR 192.14. This test asks carriers to add electronic manifest data in ACE on a dual clock, so CBP can link carrier data to USPPI EEI earlier in the outbound chain.
Limited advance data at least 24 hours before U.S. departure; complete manifest no later than 2 hours before arrival at the final port of export. Cap: nine truck carriers.
Who should apply
CBP is limiting the test to nine truck carriers. No organization-size, location, or commodity-type restrictions. Applicants must be able to submit data electronically to ACE, either through the ACE Export Truck Manifest Trade Portal or via EDI (Cargo-ANSI X12 or Unified XML response sets), and must complete certification testing with their client representative if choosing EDI.
Apply by email to cbptruckexportmanifest@cbp.dhs.gov with subject line Electronic Export Manifest for Truck Cargo Test Application. Include a point of contact name and telephone number. Applications are accepted until nine qualifying parties are in. Selection considers order of receipt.
Cap: 9 truck carriers
Advance data: ≥24h before U.S. departure
Complete manifest: ≤2h before final export port arrival
91 FR 60383 · Doc. 2026-19414
The dual filing clock
- Advance (initial) filing: seven mandatory data elements at least 24 hours before departure from the United States to a foreign destination.
- Complete manifest: full mandatory / conditional / optional set no later than two hours before arrival at the final port of export.
CBP will use the electronic submission to target high-risk truck cargo. Held cargo stays held until additional information, inspection, or other CBP action clears it. Participants agree to operational security protocols matching CBP hold messages, prompt responses to CBP questions, and compliance with Do Not Load instructions. Participation does not create legally binding obligations, and CBP generally does not intend to levy punitive measures for non-compliance during the test.
Advance data elements (the seven)
Mandatory advance elements:
- Bill of lading number
- Cargo quantity (lowest external packaging unit; not containers or pallets as the quantity unit)
- Total cargo weight (pounds or kilograms)
- Precise cargo description (and HTS to 6 digits if received from the shipper); generic FAK / general cargo / STC not acceptable
- Shipper complete name and address from the bill(s) of lading
- Consignee complete name and address (plus notify-party rules for "to order" shipments)
- AES Exemption Statement, as applicable
Complete manifest: what else lands
The complete filing adds carrier and conveyance detail: driver information, U.S. port of export, port of unlading, SCAC, VIN or license plate, unique manifest number, estimated date of departure, empty/loaded status, BOL type, and related cargo fields. Conditional elements include notify party, crew, equipment number, seal, hazmat/CAS, marks and numbers, ITN or EEI filing exemption code or in-bond number, Mexican pedimento (Mexico exports), and VIN/PIN for new self-propelled vehicles. Optional: place where the carrier takes possession.
This test does not replace USPPI EEI filing under 19 CFR 192.14. Carriers still need AES proof of filing, downtime, exclusion, or exemption citations before loading where the regulations require them. The EEM test is additive carrier data in ACE, not a substitute commodity filing.
Why join (and what it costs)
CBP frames benefits around earlier risk assessment, fewer post-load exams, and supply-chain facilitation. Participants carry their own infrastructure and integration costs. If you already move high volumes of truck exports to Canada or Mexico and can staff ACE portal or EDI certification before October 23, this is the window to influence how mandatory truck export manifests may eventually look.
Program, policy, and technical comments also go to cbptruckexportmanifest@cbp.dhs.gov with subject Comment on Electronic Export Manifest for Truck Cargo Test. Contact named in the notice: David Garcia, Outbound Enforcement and Policy Branch, OFO.
- Voluntary ACE EEM Truck Cargo Test starts October 23, 2026 for ~2 years (91 FR 60383 / Doc. 2026-19414).
- Maximum nine truck carriers; apply to cbptruckexportmanifest@cbp.dhs.gov with the specified subject line.
- File limited advance data ≥24 hours before U.S. departure; complete manifest ≤2 hours before arrival at the final export port.
- Submit via ACE portal or EDI (Cargo-ANSI X12 / Unified XML); EDI requires certification testing.
- Does not replace USPPI EEI under 19 CFR 192.14.
- Seven mandatory advance elements plus a fuller mandatory/conditional/optional complete set.
- Electronic Export Manifest for Truck Cargo Test (91 FR 60383) · Federal Register / U.S. Customs and Border Protection
This article is for general information and is not legal or tax advice. Drawback eligibility depends on your specific facts, and final refunds are determined by CBP at liquidation. Consult a licensed customs broker or attorney for your situation.