CSMS Message: 16-000373

This message provides clarification to the 16-000322 April 22nd notification for ACE Cargo Release filers, and applies only for an interim period from now until use of the ACE PGA message set becomes mandatory for submission of data to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Message 16-000322 stated, “PGA forms that require approval and/or signature by the PGA must obtain the approval/signature from the PGA prior to submitting the form in DIS. Those forms requiring PGA approval prior to submission in DIS includes the ATF Release & Receipt of Imported Firearms, Ammunition and Implements of War Form (6A).”

In the statement above, the completion and approval of an ATF Application and Permit for Importation of Firearms, Ammunition and Implements of War (Form 6) or its electronic equivalent (ATF's internal system) represents ATF's prior approval. The presence of an approved ATF Form 6 accompanied with the ATF Form 6A DIS submission represents approval of importation. There is no expectation that filers should receive a signature from CBP, nor ATF, for Form 6A submissions. There is also no requirement that CBP print out the submitted form from DIS. However, filers are still required to provide a copy of the Form 6A, with Sections I and III completed, to ATF within 15 days of the release from CBP custody without CBP signature. Filers should also be mindful that Form 6 and 6A should be submitted simultaneously with the entry. If filers do not send the Form 6A with the entry, processing may halt because documents (Form 6 and 6A) are required for release.

ATF pilot participants may continue to submit the required data via the PGA Message Set during the interim period. This interim DIS policy is merely providing the option for Cargo Release filers to upload the Form 6 and 6A in DIS until the data captured in those forms are required to be submitted electronically via the PGA Message Set. The ATF pilot is still open, and new participants are welcome to join.

Please note that upon ACE mandatory dates for each Partner Government Agency (PGA), all filers will be required to submit data via the PGA Message Set for those PGAs. For example, the National Highway Safety Traffic Administration (NHTSA) filings are currently mandatory in ACE, thus the HS-7 Declaration data must be transmitted via the PGA Message Set, and the HS-7 does not qualify for submission via DIS. Should you have any questions please contact International Trade Specialist, Kellee Gross at 202-863-6568.