There are a number of steps, codes, documents required for transporting goods across the Canada/United States border. Some elements are mandatory for all shipments. In other cases, there are options depending on the content of the load or the process you are using.


A Carrier SCAC code (Standard Carrier Alpha Code) or Carrier Code is required in all cases. The SCAC code is a 4 digit alpha code and is the first four digits on a PAPS sticker.



PAPS Sticker Sample 1  PAPS Sticker Sample 2

Canadian Carrier Code is shown as the first 4 numeric digits on your PARS label.

PARS Sticker Sample

– Free and Secure Trade
The FAST program is a joint Canada–United States initiative. It supports moving pre-approved eligible goods across the border quickly and verifying trade compliance prior to arrival at the border.

It is a commercial process offered to pre-approved importers, carriers, and registered drivers. Shipments for approved companies, transported by approved carriers using registered drivers, will be cleared into either country with greater speed and certainty, and at a reduced cost of compliance.

  Reduces information requirements for customs/border clearance
  Eliminates the need for importers to transmit data for each transaction
  Lanes are dedicated for FAST clearances
  Reduces the rate of border examinations
  Verifies trade compliance away from the border


A transponder is issued to the serial number in each truck. It is adhered to the front windshield of the tractor. When the truck arrives at the border, that truck and ultimately the carrier of record are identified.


To become a FAST driver: - Complete an application form
- Be interviewed by US Customs
When these 2 steps are passed successfully: - Photo is taken and applied to a bar coded identification card.
To become a FAST carrier: - To qualify for fast processing at the border, carriers enter into a Security Agreement with US Customs. This agreement is called C-TPAT - Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism.
- The second step is to provide procedural information to US Customs on how you as a carrier conduct a secure chain of business.

 

In order for a load to qualify as FAST and use the FAST lane at the border, the driver, carrier and the shipper must be FAST approved. If a driver does not have a current FAST card, he/she cannot move a FAST load.

– Northbound Shipments
CSA is exactly the same process as FAST but applies to northbound shipments through Canadian Customs. Both US and Canada Customs bodies work interactively.
The web site to verify a carrier’s CSA status is http://www.cbsa.gc.ca/import/csa/approved-e.html


PIP is the Canadian Security Partnership Agreement with Canada Customs.


ACE accepts manifests electronically.

For more information on ACE contact: Dave McMillan at Dell Will Customs Brokers Inc. 519-258-3141 extension 228