Get to know the vital terms of Logistics and Supply Chain Management.
The Automated Manifest System (AMS) is a system used by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to process the necessary documentation for shipments entering the United States. It was introduced in 2004 to streamline the flow of cargo information, allowing U.S. customs to ensure compliance with security regulations and trade laws before shipments arrive at U.S. ports and airports.
AMS requires carriers and freight forwarders to submit detailed cargo information electronically to U.S. customs within specific timeframes. The goal is to improve the efficiency of customs clearance and ensure national security by identifying potential risks in incoming shipments.
Carriers must submit the following documents at least 24 hours before loading the cargo onto the ship or plane:
Importer Security Filing (ISF): This filing provides critical information about the goods and parties involved in the shipment.
Two Additional Documents: These include details like the manifest and bill of lading.
For goods in transit, carriers are required to submit 5 ISF data elements, which allow customs to track and manage in-transit cargo.
Before the ship or plane arrives at the U.S. port, the freight forwarders must submit customs entry information using the ocean manifest, including:
House Bill of Lading
Commercial Invoice
Security: AMS helps U.S. customs identify potential risks in cargo shipments well before they reach U.S. borders.
Efficiency: By receiving cargo information in advance, customs authorities can process shipments more quickly upon arrival, minimizing delays.
Compliance: AMS ensures that all shipments entering the U.S. comply with customs regulations, reducing the likelihood of fines or cargo holds.
In summary, the Automated Manifest System is essential for ensuring the smooth, secure, and compliant entry of goods into the United States, benefiting both customs authorities and logistics providers.