The process of AMS, Automated Manifest System, was initiated by the U.S. Customs and
Border Protection (CBP) in 2004 to enhance security and streamline cargo processing through
this electronic transmission system.
The United States imports a high volume of cargo from around the world, therefore making sure
your shipments are compliant should be top priority. AMS filing is one of those most crucial
steps in your shipping journey.
What is Automated Manifest System (AMS)?
AMS is an electronic database system that allows carriers to report cargo details for shipments
to CBP prior to arrival of the cargo. It can be filed by the carrier or the freight forwarder and must
be filed 24 hours prior to loading of the cargo. Automated Manifest System, or AMS, is required
for all ocean, air, rail, and truck shipments entering into the United States.
The purpose of AMS is to allow CBP to process and screen cargo details before it arrives in the
United States. By having this information available to CBP, it enhances national security and
trade compliance.
What is the Difference between ISF and AMS?
When Do You File AMS?
As mentioned previously, Automated Manifest System (AMS), must be filed 24 hours prior to
cargo loading on the vessel at the foreign port for ocean shipments. LIke all custom regulations,
failure to comply and file in a timely manner can lead to costly fines and delays. Different modes
of transport have different timelines on when to file AMS.
| Type of Cargo | Time of Receipt (AMS) |
| Ocean | 24 hours before loading on vessel at the foreign port |
| Air | 4 hours before arrival or before wheels up |
| Rail | 2 hours before arrival in the U.S. Border |
| Truck | 1 hour before arrival at the U.S. Border |
What Key Information Is Required for AMS Filing?
Below are the key required information you will need to gather in order to provide to the
forwarder that will file AMS on your behalf. If you are looking for an experienced agent, call our
team today to help you process all your paperwork on time and accurately.
- Shipper and consignee information – must have full name and address information listed.
- Cargo Details – Details required are description of the cargo, HS code, quantity, and
weight. For example, general cargo information such as general cargo is non compliant
and will result in delays. Best practice is to give full clear details of cargo. - Container and Seal Number(s)
- Transport details – For ocean, you will need to list the vessel, voyage, and carrier SCAC
code. For air, you will need MAWB, HAWB and flight number. - The port the cargo is loaded
- Final destination port
- Arrival date at the final destination port
Similar to ISF filing, it is important to make sure that AMS was submitted successfully and a
confirmation of acceptance was received. If any rejection was received, it must be addressed
immediately and resubmitted. Check for any errors that may have caused the rejection of the
AMS that was filed. Again, having a knowledgeable freight forwarder can make sure these
requirements are submitted accurately.
If any amendments need to be made, it must be revised right away. Failure to update any
revised information could result in clearance delays and hefty fines. Amendments to AMS filing
are done due to changes in cargo details, consignee, container or seal information.
Benefits of AMS Filing
Automated Manifest System (AMS) provides benefits for import cargo by replacing manual
document processing with electronic data submission. Below are the list of benefits for AMS
filings
- Faster cargo clearance – submitting electronically can speed up processing time which
results in faster cargo release. - Enhanced security and compliance – AMS filing provides CBP with data prior to arrival
which helps the team to monitor and assess these shipments. It helps CBP detect any
high risk shipments entering the ports. - Reduces manual workload – AMS filing reduces manual processing of documentation
resulting in minimizing errors and efficiency for businesses.
ISF vs AMS, what is the difference?
Importer Security Filing (ISF), is a mandatory requirement for ocean freight cargo that must
be filed 24 hours before loading on the vessel. This was introduced by Custom and Border
Protection (CBP) to enhance maritime security. Automated Manifest System (AMS) on the
other hand is used by carriers for all modes of transport to track cargo movement.
For ocean shipments, your ISF filing and AMS filing must match to ensure no delays due to
incorrect or mismatching information. CBP does cross check between AMS filings and ISF
filings so ensuring that both are on file and have a data match is an important check that
must be done by the party filing on your behalf.
For a detailed explanation on Importer Security Filing (ISF) check out our blog on ISF.
AMS Filing Fees
AMS filing fees will be an additional cost charged by your freight forwarder in order to
process the manifest. AMS charges can vary depending on your provider. It is best to
connect with your freight broker on getting full transparency on the cost associated with
filing AMS on your behalf.
Our team at Terralink Logistics can help price this service for you and provide guidance.
Contact us today and let us be your trusted partner.
Final Thoughts
Compliance is something that must be taken seriously if you are in the shipping industry.
Having a knowledgeable partner that is up to date with CBP rules and regulations can help
companies be compliant with all the requirements. Remember to file your AMS 24 hours in
advance of cargo departure from the country of origin.
If you are unsure about the filing requirements or about improper filings, call or email our
team today. Our knowledgeable team has experience in AMS and ISF filings on a daily
basis and are happy to assist you in any way we can.