ACE test to focus on monthly payment process
A select group of importers and their broker representatives will be able to pay estimated duties and fees on a monthly basis through an account-based system instead of each time a shipment enters the United States under a new test phase for the Automated Commercial Environment.
The first phase of testing the modernized computer system began last year with a select group of 41 importers who were able to access their customs account data through a secure Web portal. The second phase of the ACE rollout is designed to test the ability of the system to accept periodic payments. Payments can be made on a national or port-by-port basis.
Customs said the test will start sometime after April 13 and that interested companies have until April 5 to apply for participation in the test.
To read the notice, go to:
http://a257.g.akamaitech.net/7/257/2422/14mar20010800/edocket.access.gpo.gov/2004/04-2253.htm.