Washington – U.S. Customs and Border Protection announces the delivery of the first phase of Cargo Release, known as Simplified Entry, in the Automated Commercial Environment. Simplified Entry provides importers with the chance to file a streamlined set of data earlier in the filing process providing more information earlier in the process and reduces the time needed for cargo to be released into the stream of commerce.

“The Simplified Entry Pilot is an outstanding example of what can happen when the government and the private sector co-create trade programs,” said Acting Commissioner, David V. Aguilar. “Simplified Entry will enhance cargo security, reduce cycle times, improve productivity, help eliminate redundant data transmissions, and potentially reduce costs.”

CBP has received the first Simplified Entry filings at each of the three pilot ports of Indianapolis, Chicago and Atlanta, as part of the pilot test that began May 29, 2012. To date, six of the nine pilot participants selected in December of 2011 have begun filing Simplified Entries.

Simplified Entry streamlines the release of goods and enhances cargo security. It segregates the filing of the transportation information from the filing of the entry information. This allows for the earlier filing of entry information. This, in turn, allows CBP personnel to apply more time and resources to higher risk shipments.