COAC Recommends Longer Max In-Bond Transit Time, Extension Requests in ACE

CBP should extend the maximum in-transit time for merchandise from 30 to 60 days, the Commercial Customs Operations Advisory Committee said in a recommendation adopted at its March 29 quarterly meeting. The extension would "harmonize that threshold across all modes" and help better accommodate movements requiring extra transit time, which would lessen the need to request extensions, the COAC said.

The COAC also approved a recommendation that CBP allow trade partners to request extensions for in-transit time via ACE or another electronic document system for all merchandise transported in-bond. The requirements currently dictate that the requests to be submitted in writing to the port director. A paperless option would "streamline the request process and is consistent with other in-bond requests, such as diversions," the COAC said.

The COAC also asked CBP to communicate all in-bond hold messages using real-time push messaging via a CBP-approved electronic system. Currently, trade parties must query each master bill of lading about the hold status of their shipment "multiple times" during the life of the shipment. This process is "inefficient and burdensome," with most inquiries resulting in no hold, the recommendation adopted by the COAC said.