Cargo Release Responses

Understanding ACE Cargo Release Responses

Once we transmit the cargo release request to CBP, we await their response. The most common response is "One USG," which indicates that all is set and the shipment has been released. However, there are several other possible outcomes. Below is a detailed explanation of each potential result:

One USG

A "One USG" message indicates that the merchandise has arrived, all required entry data has been submitted, all PGAs have issued "May Proceed" messages, and CBP has conditionally released the merchandise. This message is based on the accuracy of the submitted data and is sent even if the merchandise is not regulated by any PGA.

May Proceed

A "May Proceed" message indicates that a specific PGA (such as the FDA, NHTSA, EPA, or USDA) has determined, based on the ACE data, that the merchandise can enter U.S. commerce. There may still be PGA restrictions, such as shipping to an exempted outlet. If multiple PGAs regulate the merchandise, each must issue a separate "May Proceed" message before it can proceed. However, the merchandise cannot enter commerce until CBP releases it. Once CBP and all required PGAs have issued "May Proceed" messages, a "One USG" message will be sent, indicating that the merchandise may enter commerce. Note that even after the "One USG" message, the merchandise remains subject to a Notice of Redelivery.

CBP Release

A "CBP Release" message signifies that CBP has determined the merchandise can be released from CBP custody. This release is conditional and subject to recall through a Notice of Redelivery. Merchandise regulated by PGAs cannot proceed into commerce until CBP and all relevant PGAs have issued "May Proceed" messages.

Under Review

An "Under Review" message means that one or more PGAs are reviewing the data to decide whether to issue a "May Proceed" or "Hold Intact" message. This status impacts the issuance of a "One USG" message. Merchandise cannot enter commerce without resolving the "Under Review" status, which may result in a Notice of Redelivery or enforcement action by CBP or a PGA. Merchandise under review may be released by CBP if not held for examination or other purposes.

Documents Required

A "Documents Required" message indicates that CBP and/or a PGA needs certain documents or data before making a CBP Release or PGA "May Proceed" decision. Normally, our transmissions only require electronic reporting of the information on shipping documents, such as the Bill of Lading (BOL), Invoice, and Packing List (PL). However, this message means we must upload copies of those documents to CBP for their review. This is common for specific commodities at certain ports, and some ports want to see the documents for every vehicle being imported. While not unusual, this process can slow down the release, as CBP officers need time to review the documents and issue the release, which can take days.

Agricultural Examination

An "Agriculture Manifest Hold" indicates that CBP USDA-trained officers must conduct a USDA inspection to identify any possible agricultural threats, including foreign insects. This examination ensures compliance with U.S. agricultural import regulations and typically generates no additional cost if conducted at the port. However, if a more in-depth inspection is needed at a CES or if pests are identified and fumigation is required before release, additional costs will be incurred.

Non-Intrusive Inspection (NII)

An "NII Inspection" message indicates that the shipment will undergo non-intrusive inspection, such as X-ray or gamma-ray imaging, to screen for contraband or other prohibited items. This type of inspection is less invasive than a physical examination but can still result in delays and potential additional costs.

Intensive Exam

An "Intensive Exam" message from CBP directs the merchandise to be delivered to a designated examination facility or site for a physical examination. The merchandise remains in CBP custody and may only be moved under bond. Depending on the shipment mode, the transportation of the container to a CES (Container Examination Station) for examination may be necessary, generating additional costs, typically starting at $1,000 per shipment for full container loads (FCL). For less than container load (LCL) shipments, if the entire container is selected for intensive examination, the freight company will arrange its movement to the CES. For LCL shipments selected for intensive examination, after arrival at the CFS (Container Freight Station) and unloading from the container, the importer will need to coordinate in-bond movement of the shipment to a CES for examination. This will also generate additional costs but typically at a lower rate than for FCL.

Sample Required

A "Sample Required" message indicates that CBP and/or a PGA requires a sample of the merchandise to be sent to a specific examination facility or laboratory for inspection. The CBP conditional release period begins only when the sample is received at the correct location and may be extended if the FDA issues a Notice of Action.

Hold Intact

A "Hold Intact" message indicates that a PGA has requested an examination of the merchandise. This message is independent of a CBP Release and can be issued regardless of it. Merchandise under a "Hold Intact" message must remain intact, unaltered, and complete, and be sent to a designated location for the PGA's determination on whether it may proceed into commerce. The shipment may be required to return to the vicinity of the port of entry for examination. Although the shipment can be picked up and moved, the importer will be responsible for any charges for returning the shipment for inspection. Failure to send the merchandise to the designated location may result in a CBP Notice of Redelivery.

Refused

A "Refused" message means that CBP or a PGA has determined the merchandise cannot be admitted into U.S. commerce. The merchandise may need to be destroyed, exported, moved in-bond, or warehoused until its final disposition.

Rejected

A "Rejected" message indicates that the entry has been returned to the filer for correction and/or the inclusion of required data and information.