CBP Extends Automated Trade System Applications
Published Date: 5/7/2026
Notice
Summary
U.S. Customs and Border Protection is asking to keep collecting info for businesses using their Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) system. This extension means importers and exporters can keep using ACE without interruption, and the public has until June 8, 2026, to share their thoughts. No new fees or big changes—just a smooth continuation of the current process.
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Analyzed Economic Effects
6 provisions identified: 4 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
New Import Trade Carrier Account (VECS)
CBP added a new ACE account type for Import Trade Carriers to enable users to file vessel entrance, clearance, and related data electronically through the Vessel Entrance and Clearance System (VECS).
ACE Information Collection Extended
CBP is seeking an extension of the information collection for the Automated Commercial Environment (ACE). If your business uses ACE, this action continues the current application process and the public comment deadline is June 8, 2026.
Electronic Protest Filing Without ACE Account
ACE includes a standalone capability to file protests electronically for participants who have not created full ACE Portal accounts. Trade members can establish a protest filer account through a separate application and submit required data elements.
Use of EIN or CBP Number Instead of SSN
When establishing an ACE Portal account, CBP will use an employer identification number (EIN) automatically if you have one; a CBP-assigned number may be provided in lieu of your Social Security Number (SSN).
Application Field Change: 'Gender' to 'Sex'
Section four of the ACE application for Air Carrier/Rail Carrier/Sea Carrier/Truck Carrier/Driver/Crew was updated on February 6, 2025 to change the field label from "gender" to "sex" to comply with the Executive Order issued January 20, 2025.
Estimated Paperwork Burden for ACE Applications
CBP estimates 21,571 import ACE applicants at 20 minutes each (7,118 total annual hours); 9,000 export ACE applicants at 4 minutes each (594 total annual hours); and 3,750 protest filer applicants at 4 minutes each (248 total annual hours).
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Key Dates
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