What is AMS

AMS, abbreviation of Automated Manifest System, is a electronic transmission system to US Customs (CBP) before the actual arrival of cargo in US territory. This system originally started as to simplify the custom procedure, but recently, the main focus has shifted to inspect cargo in advance to avoid terror and to tighten security measures. CBP : Customs and Border Protection - New Official Name for US Customs. Sub-organization of US DHS (Department of Homeland Security)

What is the basic difference between AMS and other nation's declaration system?

AMS requires mandatory submission of electronic declarations within 4 hours before the arrival at first US stations. Secondly, the Carrier must transmit both MAWB and HAWB. Thirdly, any mis-input in Data, late or omission of transmission are subject to penalty.

What is the estimated amount of fine for each AMS Data failure and who is subject to fine?

For each irregularity case per MAWB/HAWB, USD5,000 - USD 10,000 will be imposed to the Carrier. According to US DHS Regulation § 122.48[c][3], the Carrier could seek re-compensation to the Agent. Cases subject to penalty : Omission of Transmission, Inaccurate Transmission, False Report Shipment of US Embargo items.

Who is subject to AMS Transmission?

Carrier (mandatory) Freight Forwarder (AMS Deconsolidator) Importer or its Broker (ABI : Automated Broker Interface) Express Consignment Facility

Should Forwarders register to US CBP for transmission of Air AMS?

Forwarders are not required to register to US CBP, and HAWB could be transmitted in other ways (See Submission of AWB Data to the Carrier). However, AMS Deconsolidator should complete registration process to acquire FIRMS Code from CBP. FIRMS : Facilities Information and Resources Management System

Are there any exceptions to the Declaration of Air AMS?

Public aircraft, Private aircraft, Charter Flights operated by US Gov't are exempted from Transmission of Air AMS.

What are the cities that require the Transmission of Air AMS?

All US Mainland cities and ANC, HNL.

Which regions are exempted from Transmission of Air AMS?

Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), U.S. Virgin Islands, American Samoa, Wake Island, Midway Islands and Johnston Atoll.

 When is the enforcement date of Air AMS?

Date Ports in the Following Locations

Eastern U.S. August 13, 2004

Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Maine, Marryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia.

Central U.S. October 13, 2004

Alabama, Arkansas, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisana, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Nebraska, New Mexico, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Wisconsin

Western U.S. December 13, 2004

Alaska, Arizona, california, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, North Dakota, Oregon, Utah, Washington

Does the enforcement date above applies to first station (including T/L) or final destination?

A : Air AMS applies to the first station (including T/L). For MASkargo, all MH flights to New York will take effect from 13th August, 2004. For MH flights to Los Angeles, Air AMS will take effect from 13th December, 2004.

Who is responsible for Air AMS Data input?

A : In general, the Carrier is responsible for MAWB Data input, and the Agent (Departure Station) is responsible for HAWB Data input.

What is the time limit for Air AMS and which station is in charge of sending Air AMS data to CBP?

A : Air AMS Data should be sent no later than 4 hours before arrival of the first station in US territory. For MASkargo, the first departure station will be in charge of sending Air AMS data to CBP.