Electronic Export Manifest for Vessel Cargo
Published Date: 2/10/2026
Proposed Rule
Summary
Starting soon, anyone shipping cargo by vessel from the U.S. will need to send their export details electronically to Customs before loading or departure. This new rule helps keep cargo safe and speeds up shipping without causing delays. If you’re involved in vessel exports, get ready to submit your info early and keep an eye on the April 13, 2026 comment deadline!
Analyzed Economic Effects
6 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 3 costs, 2 mixed.
Mandatory Electronic Export Manifests
CBP would require electronic export manifest (EEM) submissions for all cargo leaving the U.S. by vessel. An initial filing must be submitted as early as practicable but no later than 24 hours prior to loading at each port, and the remaining manifest data must be transmitted at least two hours prior to vessel departure.
Who Can File and Bond Requirement
CBP would require outbound vessel carriers to submit EEM and would permit NVOCCs, freight forwarders, customs brokers, U.S. Principal Parties in Interest (USPPI), or others with direct knowledge to file EEM. Parties other than EEI filers transmitting EEM would be required to obtain a qualifying bond to guarantee timely and accurate performance.
Limits on Post-Departure Filing
The proposed rule would narrow and limit situations where post-departure filing of vessel manifest information is allowed and would eliminate reliance on paper filings for vessel export manifests. CBP would require electronic filing in ACE and restrict post-departure filings except in limited instances.
CBP Holds and Do-Not-Load Authority
CBP would be able to issue two types of holds—documentation and enforcement—after reviewing EEM data, and could issue Do-Not-Load (DNL) instructions where risk assessment or intelligence indicates an immediate threat. Held cargo would remain until additional information is submitted, an inspection occurs, or another CBP action is taken.
New and Reconfigured Mandatory Data Elements
The rule adds and standardizes specific EEM data elements to be submitted electronically. New mandatory initial-filing elements include Estimated Scheduled Departure Date and Departure Port, vessel carrier identification SCAC code, and the place the carrier took possession of the merchandise; some conditional/optional elements (e.g., Mexican Pedimento, Secondary Notify Party SCAC) are also added.
Estimated Costs, Savings, and Net Benefits
CBP estimates present value total costs of the rule over 2015–2030 between $102 million (7% discount) and $172 million (3%), with annualized costs of $10.8 million to $13.7 million. CBP estimates present value total cost savings between $119 million (7%) and $195 million (3%), yielding present value net cost savings of about $9.3 million to $17.2 million over 2015–2030; CBP characterizes the action as deregulatory under Executive Order guidance.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-20650, Low-Value Shipments
The U.S. Customs and Border Protection is proposing new rules to make importing low-value goods (under $2,500) easier and more electronic, especially for mail shipments. They want to add new data requirements for carriers and require bonds for some shipments to keep things safe and smooth. If you’re involved in shipping or receiving small packages, get ready to adapt by December 7, 2026, when comments on these changes close.
2026-17390, Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) Electronic Export Manifest for Rail Cargo
Starting October 26, 2026, all rail cargo leaving the U.S. must have its export info sent electronically through the Automated Commercial Environment (ACE). This new rule helps Customs keep cargo safe and makes trade smoother for rail exporters. Rail companies and exporters should get ready because enforcement begins a year later, on October 26, 2027.
2026-12670, Indefinite Suspension of the De Minimis Exemption for Merchandise Arriving Through All Modes Other Than the International Postal Network
Starting June 24, 2026, small shipments worth $800 or less arriving by anything but the international postal network will no longer skip customs checks. This means everyone importing these goods must follow formal or informal entry rules, which could mean more paperwork and possible fees. If you’re a shopper, seller, or shipper using other delivery methods, get ready for this change and share your thoughts by July 24, 2026!
2026-12669, Indefinite Suspension of the De Minimis Exemption for Mail Shipments and New Postal Informal Entry Process
Starting July 24, 2026, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection is stopping the $800 tax-free rule for mail shipments coming into the U.S. Instead, a new process will handle these packages to better track and tax imports. This change affects anyone sending or receiving international mail and aims to protect U.S. revenue from unpaid duties.
2026-20228, Agency Information Collection Activities; Court-Ordered Refunds Under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act Worksheet
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