Importers, consignees, and shippers may request that Customs and Border Protection (CBP) keep certain elements of vessel manifests confidential.
The program covers twenty-two (22) different data points found on manifests, including consignee, notify, and shipper party names and addresses. With Electronic Vessel Manifest Confidentiality, you can choose to keep this information confidential to prevent competitors from linking your manifest data to your company name.
Currently, ocean carriers, importers, consignees and shippers utilizing ocean transportation may submit an electronic vessel manifest confidentiality request through the following methods:
1. Submit and manage an automated online application for electronic vessel manifest confidentiality
2. Submit a paper request
3. Submit an email request
Once received, CBP processes the confidentiality request according to the information provided. For confidentiality to be effective, the name provided must exactly match the importer/consignee name as it is entered electronically in the Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) by the trade or their carrier/filing party. It is the responsibility of the requesting entity to verify that they are providing an accurate request.
The granting of confidentiality will be valid for two (2) years from the date the request is processed and covers all ports of entry. Renewal requests should be made at least 60-90 days prior to the expiration of the current approval.
There is no fee associated with the request for confidentiality.