CBP Implements Rejection of Vague Descriptions in ACAS

In a Cargo Systems Messaging Service (CSMS) bulletin published on September 5, 2024, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) announced the "nationwide rejection" of vague cargo descriptions in Air Cargo Advance Screening (ACAS).

Prior to rejections, CBP is implementing a 30-day warning period that began the day of publication. ACAS files are expected to correct the warning notifications with the shipper and bill of lading issuer.

The CSMS bulletin provides examples of what the messaging will look like for both warning and reject notifications.

The 30-day warning period will end on October 6, 2024, and rejections will start being sent the following day. Shipments with rejected ACAS messages cannot be loaded onto the aircraft at origin.

CSMS # 62081967 can be read in full here:
https://content.govdelivery.com/bulletins/gd/USDHSCBP-3b34baf?wgt_ref=USDHSCBP_WIDGET_2

CBP's guidance document on unacceptable cargo descriptions can be found here:
https://www.cbp.gov/document/fact-sheets/unacceptable-vs-acceptable-cargo-descriptions