What is AMS in Shipping?

Automated Manifest System Explained: The Basics

Let’s start simple.

The Automated Manifest System (AMS) is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) system used to collect information about shipments before they arrive in the United States. It was developed to improve cargo security, streamline data sharing, and speed up the clearance process. AMS is used to transmit shipment data electronically to CBP.

Think of it as an early-warning system for U.S. customs, a way for them to know exactly what’s entering the country, from where, and how.

Every time a vessel is en route to the U.S., carriers are required to file electronic manifests with CBP that include detailed information about each shipment. AMS filings are submitted through CBP's Automated Commercial Environment (ACE), which serves as the digital platform for processing these documents. That’s the AMS filing.

It’s not optional. It’s a legal requirement. And yes, it comes with deadlines and penalties.

Some companies choose direct filing of AMS data through the ACE portal for greater control and efficiency.

Why Was AMS Created?

The AMS wasn’t just built for convenience, it was born out of necessity.

After the events of September 11, 2001, there was a global shift in how countries approached cargo security. The U.S. introduced stricter controls to prevent threats from slipping through ports unnoticed. Automated Manifest System (AMS) was one of the core systems created in response, and it was implemented to help meet evolving customs requirements for cargo entering the U.S.

By mandating that carriers submit manifest data before cargo arrives, customs officials gained the ability to:

• Screen shipments ahead of time

• Identify high-risk cargo

• Speed up low-risk cargo clearance

• Improve overall security and traceability

AMS also enables more accurate and timely cargo reporting, which is essential for regulatory compliance and helps ensure shipments are processed efficiently by freight forwarders, customs brokers, and vessel agents.

Today, it’s a standard part of the U.S. import process and a critical part of any freight forwarder or NVOCC’s (Non-Vessel Operating Common Carrier) workflow.

Benefits of AMS Filing

By leveraging the automated manifest system, companies can significantly enhance national security, as early cargo data submission allows border protection authorities to identify and address potential security threats before shipments even reach U.S. ports.

AMS filing also streamlines the customs clearance process, helping to minimize shipment delays and reduce the risk of costly demurrage fees. Since all cargo data is submitted electronically, there’s less paperwork and a much lower chance of manual errors, which means smoother operations and better compliance with customs regulations.

Another major benefit? Avoiding severe fines. Accurate and timely AMS filings keep your company on the right side of border protection rules, protecting you from penalties that can quickly add up. Plus, the automated manifest system ams provides real-time tracking and visibility into cargo movement, empowering you to make smarter decisions and improve supply chain forecasting.

Who Needs to File Automated Manifest System (AMS)?

If you’re thinking this only concerns major carriers or steamship lines, think again.

The following parties typically deal with AMS filings:

• Ocean carriers

• Rail carriers

• NVOCCs

• Freight forwarders

• Customs brokers

• Importers (indirectly)

AMS filing is also crucial for consolidated shipments, where multiple cargoes are combined under a single manifest for efficient processing.

Here’s the thing: if you’re moving goods into the U.S. via ocean freight, AMS filing is on your radar whether you’re submitting the data yourself or working with a partner who handles it for you.

Even air shipments follow a similar system called Air Automated Manifest System (but we’ll keep our focus on ocean freight here).

What Information is Included in an AMS Filing?

AMS is not just about saying “Hey, we’ve got cargo.” It’s a detailed report that tells CBP exactly what’s on board, and who’s responsible for it.

Here’s a rundown of what typically goes into an Automated Manifest System (AMS) submission:

• Bill of Lading number

• Container number(s)

• Vessel name and voyage number

• Shipper and consignee details

• Description of goods

• Port of loading and discharge

• Estimated arrival time

• SCAC code (Standard Carrier Alpha Code)

• Seal numbers

• Country of origin

• HTSUS codes (optional but recommended)

• Cargo Control Number

The key word here is accuracy. Even a small mistake can delay clearance or trigger a penalty. AMS has streamlined the traditionally complex process of shipping documentation by digitizing key information like the cargo control number, reducing paperwork and manual errors.

AMS Requirements Checklist

Staying compliant with AMS filing starts with a thorough checklist. Freight forwarders and shipping carriers should always ensure they have all the necessary shipment details before starting the ams filing process. Here’s what should be on your radar:

• Accurate cargo descriptions: Clearly state what’s being shipped, using precise terms.

• Shipper and consignee details: Include complete legal names, addresses, and contact information.

• Vessel and container information: Record vessel names, voyage numbers, and all relevant container numbers.

• Essential documents: Prepare bills of lading, cargo manifests, and commercial invoices.

• Electronic air manifests: For air shipments, ensure electronic air data is ready for submission.

• Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) portal submission: All shipment details must be filed electronically through CBP’s ACE system.

Before submitting, double-check every field for accuracy and completeness. Even a small error can disrupt the ams filing process and lead to compliance issues with customs regulations. By following this checklist, freight forwarders and shipping carriers can ensure their AMS filings are timely, accurate, and fully compliant.

AMS Filing Requirements and Deadlines

In shipping, time really is money. And when it comes to Automated Manifest System (AMS), the clock starts ticking sooner than most realize.

For ocean freight entering the United States, all AMS filings must be submitted at least 24 hours before the cargo is loaded onto the vessel at the foreign port of departure. This regulation is known as the 24-Hour Rule, and it’s one of the most critical deadlines in the entire shipping process. AMS filings must be submitted electronically at the export port, where NVOCCs or freight forwarders file the AMS manifest before goods are loaded, ensuring customs compliance.

Why does it matter so much?

CBP (Customs and Border Protection) isn’t waiting until your shipment hits U.S. shores to inspect or clear it. They’re scanning cargo details before it even leaves the origin port. If they don’t receive the correct data in time, your shipment doesn’t just get delayed, it could get stopped in its tracks.

Here’s what can happen if you miss the 24-hour window or submit incorrect/incomplete data: Customs entry lodgement becomes a necessary step to ensure smooth clearance and avoid further delays by complying with CBP requirements before cargo arrives.

An AMS fee is typically charged for each filing, covering the administrative costs of electronic manifest submission.

1. Customs Hold

Your shipment gets flagged and detained for manual inspection. That could mean unexpected storage fees, delays at the port, and unhappy customers waiting on the other side.

2. Rejection of Entry

In some cases, CBP may completely deny entry to your cargo. That means you’re paying to ship it out again, or worse, watching it sit idle while red tape piles up.

3. Fines and Penalties

Non-compliance comes with a price tag, as companies may face severe fines for failing to comply with AMS filing requirements. CBP can impose penalties up to $5,000 per violation, and that adds up fast, especially if you’re handling high-volume shipments.

4. Reputational Risk

Maybe the worst part? Your company gets flagged for future scrutiny, which means even when you do everything right next time, you’re more likely to face delays, audits, and extra paperwork just because you slipped once.

The bottom line?

Getting AMS right the first time isn’t just a formality; it’s essential.

It’s the kind of thing that doesn’t make headlines… until it does. One late filing, one incorrect code, and suddenly you’re losing valuable time, money, and trust.

Role of a Customs Broker in AMS Filing

A customs broker is an essential partner in the AMS filing process, acting as the bridge between freight forwarders, shipping carriers, and border protection authorities. Their expertise ensures that all required documents and information are prepared accurately and submitted on time, reducing the risk of errors that could lead to severe fines.

Customs brokers are well-versed in AMS requirements, customs regulations, and the technical aspects of the electronic filing process through the ACE portal. By handling the ams filing process, they help companies navigate complex rules, manage ams fees, and stay compliant with tax codes and other customs procedures.

Outsourcing AMS filing to a trusted customs broker means you can focus on your core business, knowing that your filings are in expert hands. This not only minimizes compliance risks but also provides valuable guidance on the latest regulatory changes, helping you avoid costly mistakes and maintain smooth shipping operations.

What Happens After AMS Is Filed?

Once your AMS data is submitted, it goes straight into CBP’s automated screening system. Here, every detail is analyzed, cross-checked against risk profiles, import records, and even global watchlists.

There are three typical outcomes:

1. Hold: The shipment is flagged for inspection.

2. Release: The shipment is cleared and ready for further processing.

3. Do Not Load (DNL): The shipment is denied permission to board the vessel (rare, but serious).

Release information is updated in the AMS to reflect the current status of the shipment, ensuring all parties, carriers, customs authorities, and logistics providers can track cargo status and coordinate customs clearance efficiently.

In most cases, if your data is accurate and filed on time, CBP greenlights the cargo, and your containers move forward without a hitch.

Filing Status and Tracking

Once AMS filings are submitted, keeping a close eye on their status is crucial. Freight forwarders and shipping carriers can monitor the filing status through the ACE portal or by coordinating with their customs broker. This proactive approach helps ensure that all documents have been accepted by CBP and that there are no outstanding issues that could cause shipment delays.

If any problems or errors are detected, quick action is essential to resolve them and prevent disruptions. Tracking AMS filings also allows companies to verify the accuracy of submitted data and make any necessary corrections before the shipment arrives at the port. By staying on top of filing status, businesses can maintain compliance with customs regulations, address potential security threats promptly, and keep their supply chain running smoothly.

AMS vs ISF: What’s the Difference?

Quick side note, people often confuse AMS with ISF (Importer Security Filing). While both involve submitting shipping data to CBP, they’re not the same.

Here’s the breakdown:

For ocean shipments entering the U.S., both AMS and ISF must be filed to ensure compliance with customs regulations. Different parties are responsible for each filing, carriers or NVOCCs file AMS, while importers or their agents file ISF. It is essential to file AMS accurately and on time to avoid delays and penalties.

Common AMS Mistakes 

Even seasoned logistics professionals, people who’ve been in the game for decades, can trip up when it comes to AMS. The system is detailed, the rules are strict, and the deadlines don’t bend.

But here’s the silver lining, most Automated Manifest System (AMS) errors are preventable. With the right workflows, digital tools, and a bit of attention to detail, you can eliminate these hiccups before they cost you. Digital solutions like electronic truck documentation and the Automated Broker Interface (ABI) can further help minimize common AMS errors by streamlining customs procedures and reducing manual paperwork.

Here are a few common mistakes we see:

1. Late Submissions

Missing the 24-hour filing window before cargo is loaded is one of the most frequent issues. Sometimes it’s a communication gap. Sometimes it’s just the chaos of managing multiple shipments at once. Either way, waiting until the last minute is a risky move.

The smarter approach is to set up automated alerts and clear cutoffs in your freight management system. Make Automated Manifest System (AMS) submission part of your core process, not an afterthought. A reliable system will flag any upcoming deadlines, trigger real-time alerts, and help you stay proactive instead of scrambling to catch up.

2. Wrong SCAC or Bill of Lading

Small slip-ups like mistyped SCAC codes or incorrect B/L numbers can bring an entire shipment to a halt. It happens more often than you think like entering OOCL instead of OOLU or using the wrong B/L from a different order.

Avoid this by double-checking all carrier details. Confirm SCAC codes directly with the carrier or refer to official CBP listings. Many platforms now auto-validate these fields as you go. And if you’re still copying from emails or PDFs, it's time to rethink that process. Automating these inputs is a quick fix to this problem.

3. Typos in Cargo Descriptions

Inaccurate or vague cargo descriptions are another common pitfall. Rushed entries or improvised summaries can lead to inconsistencies that delay clearance or trigger extra inspections.

A better way to handle this is by using structured templates with predefined cargo terms and codes. If you ship similar items regularly, create a standard library of approved product names and HS codes. Some systems even suggest past entries to help you stay consistent. Clean data here keeps both customs and your customers happy.

4. Incorrect Consignee Info

Wrong consignee names, addresses, or EINs can throw off everything, especially when CBP uses this info to determine cargo ownership and responsibility. These mistakes usually come from using outdated templates or unchecked client inputs.

To avoid it, always verify consignee details against current records or trusted databases. If it’s a new consignee, build in a verification step before filing. It's a simple quality check that prevents a lot of headaches down the line.

5. Relying on Manual Systems

Using spreadsheets, emails, or outdated software for AMS filing is not only slow, it’s risky. While many teams rely on manual processes out of habit, the cost of errors in today’s logistics environment is too high to ignore.

Modern digital freight platforms go beyond organization. They help minimize risk by flagging incomplete or mismatched data, automating CBP submissions, integrating with carrier systems, and providing a centralized dashboard for tracking and compliance. Documentation is also securely stored for easy access during audits.

How AMS Filing Software Can Help

Manual AMS filings via spreadsheets or old-school EDI systems are just waiting for something to go wrong. In 2025, smart logistics teams are switching to cloud-based AMS Filing software platforms that handle:Auto-fill templates

• Real-time error checks

• Carrier integration

• Customs compliance tracking

• Centralized dashboards

These tools not only make filing smoother but also reduce the risk of penalties, free up your team’s time, and give you more visibility into what’s moving and where.

You can store records for audits, reference past filings, and coordinate with your customs broker without email chains.

 Best Practices for AMS Filing

To achieve efficient and compliant AMS filings, freight forwarders and shipping carriers should adopt a set of proven best practices. Start by verifying the accuracy and completeness of all data before submission double-check every detail, from cargo descriptions to consignee information. Using authorized third party ams software can further reduce errors and streamline the process.

Maintain detailed records of all filings, and set up a reliable system for tracking and monitoring each submission. This enables you to respond quickly if any issues arise and ensures you’re always prepared for audits or compliance checks by border protection authorities.

Stay informed about updates to customs regulations and ams requirements, as rules can change frequently. Regular training and process reviews help your team stay sharp and avoid non-compliance, which can lead to severe fines. By following these best practices, you’ll keep your filing process efficient, accurate, and fully aligned with regulatory expectations protecting your business and your reputation in the global shipping industry.

The Importance of AMS Filing Process

The global shipping world isn’t slowing down. If anything, it’s getting faster, more digital, and more tightly regulated.

With the rise of:

• Cross-border eCommerce

• Nearshoring

• New compliance regulations

• Real-time tracking expectations customs systems like AMS play a more central role than ever before.

What used to be “just another filing” is now a vital cog in your supply chain. When Automated Manifest System (AMS) works well, your cargo moves seamlessly. When it doesn’t, your entire operation can stall.

Final Thoughts: AMS is Not Just a Checkbox

So, what is AMS filing in shipping?

It’s not just a filing system. It’s a critical gatekeeper for international trade into the U.S.

Getting Automated Manifest System (AMS) right means:

• Fewer delays

• Fewer fines

• Happier customers

• Smoother workflows

It’s time we stop treating customs filings as side tasks and start seeing them for what they are: strategic levers in global logistics.

Whether you're a freight forwarder, an NVOCC, or an importer juggling multiple shipments, AMS compliance isn’t just about avoiding trouble, it’s about unlocking speed, transparency, and efficiency in a complex shipping world.

If you haven’t already, now’s the time to modernize your filing process, stay ahead of regulation, and take control of your shipping game.

Want to simplify Automated Manifest System (AMS) filing?
Explore freight tech platforms that take the guesswork out of compliance.
Because your cargo shouldn’t get stuck at the border over a typo.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who is responsible for filing AMS?

AMS is typically filed by ocean carriers, NVOCCs, or freight forwarders. However, it’s important for importers and customs brokers to ensure that the data is submitted correctly and on time.

2. When does AMS need to be filed?

For ocean shipments, AMS must be filed at least 24 hours before the cargo is loaded onto the vessel at the foreign port. This is known as the 24-Hour Rule.

3. What happens if AMS is filed late or contains errors?

Late or incorrect AMS filings can lead to serious consequences including shipment holds, denial of entry, penalties (up to $5,000 per violation), and increased scrutiny from CBP in the future.

4. Is AMS filing required for all types of shipments?

AMS filing is mandatory for all ocean shipments entering the United States. Air shipments follow a similar system called Air AMS, but the rules and timelines differ slightly. Other modes, like trucking or rail, may be subject to different requirements (e.g., ACE Manifest).

5. What’s the difference between AMS and ISF?

While both are U.S. customs filings, AMS is submitted by the carrier or NVOCC and relates to the manifest. ISF (Importer Security Filing) is submitted by the importer and includes details about the shipment’s origin, suppliers, and HTS codes. Both are required for ocean imports.