Cross-Border SOP

US–Canada Cross-Border Load Preparation

Avoid border delays by preparing documents and electronic manifests before the truck arrives at the port of entry.

Scope
Loads crossing between the United States and Canada in either direction.
Responsible
Cross-Border Coordinator; Dispatcher; Customs Broker (external)
Version
1.0 · not yet reviewed by the academy

Procedure

  1. Confirm the shipper has appointed a customs broker for the destination country and obtain their contact details.
  2. Collect the commercial invoice, packing list and any permits or certificates the commodity requires.
  3. Confirm the carrier and driver are eligible for the crossing (documents, programme memberships if applicable).
  4. Send documents to the customs broker and obtain the release reference (for example a PARS or PAPS number) before departure.
  5. Ensure the electronic manifest is submitted within the required time before arrival at the border.
  6. Track the border crossing and record release or any inspection delay.

Educational information only. Requirements can change. Verify current requirements with the applicable government authority or qualified professional before acting.

Practise it

Apply these procedures in the simulators — dispatch workflow, carrier verification, cross-border and the TMS sandbox.

Open the simulators →