CBP Tests 'Fun' Electronic Truck Exports 24 Hours Early
Published Date: 9/23/2026
Notice
Summary
Starting October 23, 2026, U.S. Customs and Border Protection is launching a fun, voluntary test for truck exporters to submit some export info electronically 24 hours before leaving the U.S., with the full details due 2 hours before reaching the border. This test lasts about two years and is open to nine qualified participants. It’s a smart move to speed up exports and make paperwork easier, with no extra fees involved.
Analyzed Economic Effects
9 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 6 costs, 1 mixed.
Test could lead to mandatory nationwide rule
CBP states that upon sufficient analysis of the test results, it intends to initiate rulemaking to require submission of electronic export manifest data before cargo is loaded onto trucks for all international shipments exported from the United States.
Strict filing timeframes: 24 hours and 2 hours
Test participants must submit limited export manifest data electronically at least 24 hours before departure from the United States and then submit the complete export manifest no later than two (2) hours before arrival at the final port of export.
Seven advance data items required
Participants must provide seven advance mandatory data elements 24 hours before departure: (1) bill of lading number; (2) cargo quantity; (3) total weight (lbs or kgs); (4) precise cargo description (and HTS 6-digit if available) and weight; (5) shipper's name and address; (6) consignee's name and address; and (7) the AES Exemption Statement, if applicable.
Technical eligibility and certification required
To join the test, participants must have the technical capability to submit data through ACE via the Export Truck Manifest Trade Portal or by electronic data interchange (EDI), and if using EDI must be able to receive response messages via Cargo-ANSI X12 or Unified XML and complete certification testing with CBP.
Participants pay all participation costs
Electronic Export Manifest for Truck Cargo Test participants are responsible for all costs they incur from participation, which will vary depending on each participant's existing infrastructure.
Potential operational benefits from participation
CBP lists potential benefits for test participants such as reduced post-loading examinations, fewer border inspection delays, improved transport data accuracy when linked to AES filings, increased security-based targeting, and facilitation of legitimate cargo movement.
Voluntary test but subject to export laws and sanctions
Participation is voluntary and does not create legally binding obligations on CBP or participants during the test, but participants remain subject to all other statutory and regulatory export requirements and may face penalties for violations; CBP may suspend or sanction participants for misconduct.
Voluntary 2-year test with nine slots
Starting October 23, 2026, CBP will run a voluntary Electronic Export Manifest for Truck Cargo Test that lasts approximately two years and will accept up to nine truck carrier participants. Applications are accepted until CBP receives nine qualifying applicants.
Data confidentiality vs. participant name disclosure
Data entered into ACE is treated as confidential under the Trade Secrets Act (18 U.S.C. 1905), but participation in the ACE test is not confidential and CBP will disclose the name(s) of approved participant(s) in response to a written Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request.
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Key Dates
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Related Federal Register Documents
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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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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!
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