Railroads must file export cargo manifests electronically before trains leave the country
Export manifest data for every train leaving the U.S. must go to Customs and Border Protection electronically through its ACE system, not on paper: seven items at least 24 hours before departure, the rest two hours before. Enforcement starts a year later.
Who it affects
Railroads, exporters and agents shipping cargo by train to Canada or Mexico
When
This rule takes effect on October 26, 2026.
- : Published in the Federal Register
- : This rule takes effect
- : Customs and Border Protection begins enforcing the rail manifest rule
Official text
FR Doc. 2026-17390: Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) Electronic Export Manifest for Rail Cargo
On Federal Register. The official text is what counts; read it before you act.
Not legal advice. Plain-English summaries to help you find what changes and when. Not legal advice: read the official text, and ask a lawyer about your situation.