Border crossing
What is a PAPS number, and how do I get one today?
A PAPS number connects a truck's eManifest to the customs entry for its cargo. Without it, CBP can send the truck back to Canada. This guide explains who issues it and what to do when you have none.
PAPS means Pre-Arrival Processing System. It is the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) process for trucks that bring commercial goods into the United States. The PAPS number is the shipment number in the truck's ACE eManifest, and the customs broker files the entry with the same number.
Who issues a PAPS number?
The truck carrier issues it. The carrier sends the ACE eManifest to CBP under its own carrier code, the Standard Carrier Alpha Code (SCAC). The PAPS number starts with this 4-letter code and continues with a unique shipment number.
The carrier then gives the PAPS number to the customs broker. The broker files the customs entry with the same number before the truck arrives. The importer does not register for a PAPS number.
What does a PAPS number look like?
| Part | Example | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Carrier code (SCAC) | ABCD | The 4-letter code of the truck carrier |
| Shipment number | 1234567 | A unique number that the carrier gives to the shipment |
| Full PAPS number | ABCD1234567 | The number on the eManifest, the entry and the barcode sheet |
The driver carries a barcode sheet with the PAPS number. At the border, the CBP officer scans the barcode and finds the eManifest and the entry.
When must CBP receive the eManifest?
Under 19 CFR 123.92, CBP must receive the eManifest at least 1 hour before the truck arrives at the first U.S. port. For a shipment that qualifies for FAST processing, the time is 30 minutes. Use 1 hour unless the shipment qualifies. The customs entry with the same PAPS number must also be on file before arrival.
Some informal entries are exempt
Goods that are free of duty (unconditionally or conditionally) and worth $2,500 or less on CBP Form 7523, goods on CBP Form 368 or 368A, and U.S. goods returned on CBP Form 3311 do not need the advance eManifest (19 CFR 123.92(b)).
I have no carrier. How do I get a PAPS number today?
This happens to private buyers, small businesses and drivers who move their own goods: an auction car on a rental trailer, used equipment, or stock for a U.S. business. There is no trucking company, so nobody sends the eManifest.
Allied CHB files the eManifest and the customs entry together for selected requests. We give you the PAPS number and the barcode sheet for the driver. A request does not reserve same-day service: staff confirm first. The estimates are $500 for the PAPS and $125 for the customs entry. The bond, duties, taxes and CBP fees are extra.
- Send the request with the goods, the border crossing and the arrival time.
- Staff review the request. If we accept it, we confirm the price and the documents for your shipment.
- We file the eManifest and give you the PAPS number and the barcode sheet.
- We file the customs entry with the same PAPS number.
- Wait for our confirmation that CBP accepted the filings. The driver then reports to CBP with the barcode sheet. CBP decides the release.
Questions
Is a PAPS number the same as a customs entry number?
No. The PAPS number identifies the shipment on the truck's eManifest. The customs entry has its own number from the broker. The entry refers to the PAPS number, so CBP can match the two.
Can I look up the status of a PAPS number?
The carrier and the customs broker see the CBP status in their systems. Ask the party that filed the eManifest or the entry.
What happens if the PAPS number on the entry does not match the eManifest?
CBP cannot match the entry to the truck, and the truck can wait or go back. The two numbers must be the same, letter by letter.
No carrier and no PAPS?
Request a same-day PAPS and clearance. CBP needs the eManifest at least 1 hour before the truck arrives.