New ACE messaging system launched

WASHINGTON — US Customs and Border Protection has will begin offering a free broadcast messaging system for ACE, called the Cargo Systems Messaging Service (CSMS).

Previously, the only automated commercial system with an administrative messaging capability was the Automated Broker Interface (ABI), which will be officially converted to CSMS on February 11, 2008 and will no longer be available.

CSMS, which can be accessed at www.cbp.gov, works as a database and an email list to deliver information to the trade community. It offers a broadcast mechanism for other commercial systems, such as ocean/rail manifest, air manifest and electronic truck manifest for users of ACE.