Ships Go Paperless: CBP Extends Clearance Tech Test Two Years
Published Date: 2/25/2025
Notice
Summary
U.S. Customs and Border Protection is extending its test that lets ship captains and agents send arrival and clearance info electronically instead of on paper. This means less paperwork and faster processing for commercial vessels entering U.S. ports. The test now runs through February 21, 2027, giving everyone more time to try out the new system with no extra costs announced.
Analyzed Economic Effects
6 provisions identified: 4 benefits, 2 costs, 0 mixed.
CBP Plans Rulemaking to Require VECS Filing
CBP states it intends to initiate rulemaking to require submission of certain vessel arrival, entry, and clearance data electronically through VECS for all mandated vessels after Test analysis. This signals a potential future requirement that would apply beyond Test participants once rulemaking is complete.
Test Extended Through Feb 21, 2027
CBP is extending the Vessel Entrance and Clearance Automation Test for an additional 24 months, so the Test will run until February 21, 2027. If you are a commercial vessel master, agent, or operator participating in the Test, you have more time to use VECS under the Test rules.
Allowed Electronic Filing of Specific CBP Forms
During the Test, participants may submit electronically through the Vessel Entrance and Clearance System (VECS) the data collected on CBP Forms 1300, 1302, 1303, 1304, 3171, 26, and 226, and may also submit certain supporting documents electronically. This replaces (for Test participants) the usual requirement to submit many of these items on paper.
ACE Vessel Agency Portal Account Required
All Test participants must have an Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) Vessel Agency Portal Account to access VECS. If you want to participate in the Test, you must obtain that account following CBP instructions.
No New Information Collections Under PRA
CBP states the Test does not create new information collection requirements under the Paperwork Reduction Act; it only changes how existing information is submitted. Existing forms used in the Test have OMB control numbers listed in the notice.
Privacy Protections Will Be Maintained
CBP states it will adhere to Privacy Act requirements and applicable policies during the continued implementation of the Test. Participants' submitted data will be handled consistent with those privacy rules.
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