Implementing eManifest

eManifest Systems Deployment by Client Type

The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) recognizes that it will take time for the trade community to adjust to the new requirements for advance electronic trade data. Therefore, eManifest is being implemented over a number of years, by client type.

Highway carriers

The CBSA completed the deployment of electronic systems (Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) and eManifest Portal) for highway carriers to transmit cargo and conveyance data in 2011.

An informed compliance period for highway carriers is in effect. Regulations to enforce eManifest requirements for highway carriers are expected to be in place in Fall 2013. The CBSA anticipates being able to provide carriers as much as 45 days advance notice of the mandatory compliance date.

During the informed compliance period, carriers will not be denied entry to Canada or subject to penalties for reasons associated with eManifest non-compliance.

The CBSA will continue to assist clients in becoming eManifest-compliant through communications, outreach, compliance monitoring and other support activities.

Once regulations are in place, non-compliant carriers could be subject to penalties.

Rail carriers

The CBSA deployed EDI systems for rail carriers to transmit cargo and conveyance data in May 2012.

Regulations to enforce eManifest requirements for rail carriers are expected to be in place in Fall 2013. The CBSA anticipates being able to provide carriers as much as 45 days advance notice of the mandatory compliance date.

The CBSA strongly encourages all carriers to adopt eManifest requirements before they become mandatory.

Once regulations are in place, non-compliant carriers could be subject to penalties.

Freight forwarders

Freight forwarders will be able to transmit electronic house bill data in Spring 2013.

Importers

Importers will be able to transmit advance trade data in July 2014.

Early Adopters

The CBSA strongly encourages clients to adopt eManifest requirements before they become mandatory to benefit from:

• a modernized and more efficient commercial border process;
• more time to prepare for eManifest requirements by conducting EDI systems testing, registering for access to the eManifest Portal, adjusting to eManifest processes and correcting problems;
• the CBSA's comprehensive online resources and client support, including eManifest requirements and Portal documentation, presentations and demonstrations; an eManifest Help Desk and Technical Support Unit; compliance monitoring and coaching; and awareness sessions at trade conferences and trade shows; and
• a reduced likelihood of non-compliance when requirements become mandatory.