| Title: | Remote Location Filing (RLF) Hybrid Policy |
|---|---|
| Date: | 2011-08-09 |
| To: | abi |
| Links: | previous, next |
The purpose of this message is to provide clarification on the RLF "Hybrid Process."
The RLF final rule includes language to enable “alternative filing” of paper documents, if CBP cannot accept additional information electronically (see 19 CFR 1414(b)(3)(B) and 19 CFR 143.45). Although RLF was intended to be a completely electronic process, the regulation introduces a “hybrid” RLF concept. The hybrid process provides for CBP review of certain other government agency (OGA) paper forms in conjunction with the RLF data in ACS or ACE.
PLEASE NOTE: The hybrid process does not apply to all commodities. Due to certain OGA constraints, there are specific types of merchandise that continue to be ineligible for entry via RLF. For example, the hybrid RLF process does not apply to those entries for which an original document is required by another government agency. A list of forms currently precluded from the RLF hybrid process is attached to this message. This list is subject to change. CBP will notify users of changes to this list via the Cargo System Messaging Service (CSMS). Additionally, RLF transmissions continue to be limited to entry types 01 and 11.
The following process will be used for RLF entries with OGA paper document requirements:
• The hybrid documentation will be presented at the port of entry. The hybrid package will consist of the CBP Form 3461 or equivalent release document, the CBP Form 7501 (where applicable), notated with the statement, “Remote entry on file”, along with the OGA paper document(s). CBP will review the Automated Invoice Interface (AII) information in ACS.
• For those forms which are eligible under the hybrid process, ports have the discretion to determine the manner in which the filer provides the OGA documentation, i.e., whether a fax is acceptable or if the filer must deliver the documentation to a designated location at the port. Consequently, it will be necessary for those interested in submitting hybrid RLF entries to reach out to the RLF coordinator at the port of entry to determine the port's process prior to submission. A list of RLF coordinators can be found on-line at: http://www.cbp.gov/linkhandler/cgov/trade/trade_programs/remote_location_filing/rlf_coordinator_list.ctt/rlf_coordinator_list.xls
• Filers are not to present hybrid documents prior to the RLF entry summary transmission in ACS or ACE.
The ‘hybrid process’ detailed here is intended to be an interim process to bridge the technology gap until further electronic functionality is available for required supplemental documentation. RLF was intended to be a paperless process, and CBP continues to work towards the inclusion of all supporting documentation within an electronic submission. As CBP includes documents in new electronic formats, use of that new functionality will be required for RLF participation and acceptance of the hybrid submissions will be discontinued for those documents.