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.
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
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
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.
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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!
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Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2026-09105, Agency Information Collection Activities; New Collection of Information; Client Representative Technical Assistance Portal (CR-TAP)
U.S. Customs and Border Protection is launching a new online tool called the Client Representative Technical Assistance Portal (CR-TAP) to make it easier for clients to get help and share info. They’re asking for public feedback by July 6, 2026, to make sure this new system works well and doesn’t create extra hassle or costs. This change affects anyone who works with CBP and wants smoother, faster support.
Next: 2026-09107, Agency Information Collection Activities; Reinstatement, With Change, of a Previously Approved Collection for Which Approval Has Expired: Alien Change of Address
USCIS is bringing back the Alien Change of Address form with some updates after its approval expired. If you’re a non-citizen living in the U.S., you’ll need to keep your address info current to avoid trouble. Comments on these changes are open until July 6, 2026, and there’s no new fee, just a smoother process.