Free Air Cargo Manifest Form in PDF

Instructions on Writing Air Cargo Manifest

Filling out the Air Cargo Manifest form is a crucial step for carriers operating within and into the United States, ensuring that all cargo details are accurately reported to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection. This process helps facilitate a smoother and more efficient customs clearance, aiding in the quick transportation of goods. The instructions provided below are designed to simplify the completion of the form, promoting a better understanding of each section for a hassle-free submission.

1. Identify the OMB Control Number, which is 1651-0001 for this form, and ensure it’s valid for your submission. The expiration date should also be current, as per the form provided, which is 02/28/2019.
2. Start with filling in the PAGE NO. at the top left corner of the form.
3. Proceed to fill the OWNER/OPERATOR field with the name of the airline or cargo operator.
4. Complete the MARKS OF NATIONALITY AND REGISTRATION section with the aircraft's registration marks and the country of registration.
5. Input the FLIGHT NO. in its designated box.
6. Specify the PORT OF LADING and the PORT OF UNLADING, which are the departure and arrival airports, respectively.
7. Enter the DATE of the flight in the format MM/DD/YYYY.
8. For CONSOLIDATION SHIPMENTS ONLY, fill the CONSOLIDATOR and DE-CONSOLIDATOR fields if applicable. If not, these can be left blank.
9. Choose the correct AIR WAYBILL TYPE (M=Master, H=House, S=Sub) and indicate it in the form.
10. Fill in the AIR WAYBILL NO. field with the applicable number.
11. If completing boxes 12 through 17, input the NUMBER OF PIECES and WEIGHT (in Kg./Lb.), and the NUMBER OF HAWBs (House Air Waybills) if relevant. Otherwise, attach copies of air waybills to the form and inscribe "Cargo as per air waybills attached" on the form, focusing only on completing boxes 10 and 11.
12. For shipments that do not utilize attached air waybill copies, provide the SHIPPER NAME AND ADDRESS and the CONSIGNEE NAME AND ADDRESS.
13. Lastly, describe the NATURE OF GOODS in detail to ensure accurate and clear customs processing.

Upon completion, reviewing the form for accuracy is vital in avoiding delays or issues with cargo shipments. Proper and precise completion of the Air Cargo Manifest form not only complies with regulatory requirements but also aids in the efficient movement of goods, contributing to a smoother logistics operation.

What is an Air Cargo Manifest, and why is it important?

The Air Cargo Manifest is a crucial document that provides U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) with detailed information about the cargo aboard an aircraft entering or leaving the United States. It includes details such as the flight number, ports of lading and unlading, shipper and consignee information, and the nature and quantity of goods being transported. This document helps ensure that all goods carried by air comply with the import and export regulations of the United States, facilitates the smooth clearance of cargo through customs, and enhances security by tracking the movement of goods across borders.

Who is responsible for completing the Air Cargo Manifest?

The airline or aircraft operator, often referred to as the owner/operator, is typically responsible for completing the Air Cargo Manifest. Specifically, for consolidated shipments, the consolidator prepares the manifest, incorporating details from the de-consolidator as well. Freight forwarders handling consolidated cargo may also be involved in filling out certain parts of the manifest. The goal is to ensure that all relevant data concerning the cargo, flight, and parties involved in the shipping process are accurately reported to CBP.

What is the significance of the OMB Control Number and expiration date on the form?

The OMB Control Number, in this case, 1651-0001, indicates that the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has approved the Air Cargo Manifest form. This approval confirms that the form meets the standards for federal data collection. The expiration date, listed as 02/28/2019 in this instance, signifies the last day the form is authorized for use without a review and renewal by OMB. This process ensures that forms remain current, collect necessary information efficiently, and adhere to federal regulations, minimizing the burden on respondents.

Can air waybills be used in place of filling out certain sections of the Air Cargo Manifest?

Yes, to streamline the documentation process and avoid redundancy, carriers have the option to attach copies of air waybills instead of completing boxes 12 through 17 on the Air Cargo Manifest. In such cases, they must ensure that boxes 10 and 11 are filled out and include a statement on the manifest indicating "Cargo as per air waybills attached." This method allows for the efficient processing of cargo information while maintaining compliance with CBP requirements.

How can one submit the Air Cargo Manifest to U.S. Customs and Border Protection?

The Air Cargo Manifest can be submitted to U.S. Customs and Border Protection either manually or through automated means. Many carriers and freight forwarders now opt for electronic submission through systems such as the Automated Commercial Environment (ACE), which allows for faster processing and better tracking of cargo documents. However, for those preferring or requiring manual submission, the form must be completed as directed and provided to CBP at the port of entry or departure in line with CBP regulations and procedures.

Filling out the Air Cargo Manifest form, a necessary step in the shipping process, often involves attention to details that can easily be overlooked. One common mistake is neglecting to provide complete information in the OWNER/OPERATOR section. This oversight can cause delays, as this information is critical for identifying the entity responsible for the cargo.

Another error is incorrect or incomplete entries in the sections for MARKS OF NATIONALITY AND REGISTRATION and FLIGHT NO. These details are essential for tracking and managing flights, and any inaccuracies can lead to confusion and misplacement of cargo.

The PORT OF LADING and PORT OF UNLADING sections also frequently see mistakes, with shippers sometimes mixing them up or entering incorrect codes. Precise details here ensure that the cargo is routed correctly, avoiding costly mistakes of misdirected shipments.

Moreover, the accuracy of the DATE field is often underestimated. Providing the wrong date can affect the scheduled transportation and customs clearance, thereby influencing the entire supply chain timeline.

Errors also occur when filling out the portions reserved for CONSOLIDATOR and DE-CONSOLIDATOR information. When applicable, this information is crucial for understanding the consolidation dynamics of the shipment, yet it's often overlooked or incorrectly entered by those unfamiliar with consolidation processes.

In the case of the AIR WAYBILL NO. and AIR WAYBILL TYPE fields, inaccuracies or the failure to specify whether an air waybill is a Master (M), House (H), or Sub (S) can lead to significant documentation and handling errors. This distinction is important for the proper processing and tracking of shipments.

Another significant mishap involves skipping the section that asks for the NATURE OF GOODS, which is essential for customs and safety reasons. Vague or incorrect descriptions can lead to delays in customs clearance or even fines.

Lastly, neglecting the option to attach copies of air waybills and instead trying to manually fill boxes 12 through 17 can introduce errors. This method, while intended to streamline the process, can result in the omission of crucial details if not properly executed.

The Air Cargo Manifest form, serving as a critical document for the transport of goods via air, is part of a suite of documents required for the efficient and compliant movement of cargo. This document provides customs and other regulatory bodies with details about the cargo, including the flight number, port of lading, and port of unlading, among other specifics. However, to ensure a smooth process, it is often accompanied by other essential forms and documents. Below is a list of such documents that frequently accompany the Air Cargo Manifest form.

• Bill of Lading (BOL): A legal document between the shipper and carrier; it specifies the type, quantity, and destination of the goods being carried.
• Commercial Invoice: This document provides comprehensive information about the transaction between the seller and the buyer, including a description of goods, value, and country of origin, crucial for customs clearance.
• Packing List: Often accompanying the commercial invoice, the packing list details the contents, weight, and dimensions of each package, helping customs officials verify cargo.
• Certificate of Origin: A document that certifies where the goods in a particular shipment were made. It is essential for determining tariffs and is a requirement for many free-trade agreements.
• Shipper's Letter of Instruction (SLI): This provides detailed instructions from the shipper to the freight forwarder, including how cargo should be handled, thus ensuring compliance with export documentation and regulations.
• Export License: Required for the shipment of goods that might pose a threat to national security, contribute to proliferation, be destined for embargoed countries, or be commercially controlled. This license is a key document for customs clearance.

Although the Air Cargo Manifest form plays a pivotal role in international trade, its effectiveness is maximized when combined with these additional documents. Each document serves a unique purpose, from providing detailed descriptions and instructions to ensuring compliance with international regulations. Together, they form a comprehensive package that facilitates the lawful and efficient movement of goods across borders.

The Bill of Lading (BoL) shares a foundational similarity with the Air Cargo Manifest form in documenting the specifics of transported goods. Analogous to how the Air Cargo Manifest outlines details such as shipper and consignee information, flight number, and nature of goods, the BoL serves a parallel role in sea freight, delineating the terms under which goods are moved from one port to another. Both documents act as receipts issued by the carrier, detailing the list of the shipment's contents, thereby ensuring that the contractual terms for the carriage of goods are clearly defined and agreed upon between the shipping company and the sender.

Similar to the Air Cargo Manifest, the Commercial Invoice is essential in international trade, providing a comprehensive account of the transaction between the exporter and importer. While the Air Cargo Manifest focuses on the specifics of the cargo's transportation details, the Commercial Invoice includes critical information about the value, description, and quantity of the goods, along with the terms of sale. This document is crucial for customs clearance as it helps determine the applicable duties and taxes, fostering a smooth entry process at international borders in conjunction with the manifest documentation.

The Packing List goes hand in hand with the Air Cargo Manifest by offering detailed information on each package within a shipment, including weight, dimensions, and a description of the contents. While the manifest gives customs and airline officials a summary of the cargo and its movement, the Packing List provides the specifics that enable handlers and inspectors to manage the shipment efficiently. This close relationship ensures that all parties involved in the shipping process have a full understanding of the goods in transit, further enhancing the accuracy of customs declarations and facilitating the unpacking and delivery processes at the destination.

The Certificate of Origin (CoO) is a document that, while fundamentally different in purpose, complements the Air Cargo Manifest in international trade. The CoO certifies the country in which the goods were manufactured, which is critical for determining tariff rates and meeting trade agreement requirements. While the Air Cargo Manifest records the journey and particulars of the cargo, the Certificate of Origin provides customs authorities the information needed to enforce trade laws, apply tariffs, and conduct inspections based on the origin of the goods, playing a key role in the regulatory aspect of international shipments.

The Shipper's Letter of Instruction (SLI) parallels the Air Cargo Manifest in its function as a directive document in the shipping process. The SLI provides a carrier or freight forwarder with detailed instructions on how a shipment should be handled, covering aspects such as routing, declarations for customs, and billing instructions. Though the SLI is more about providing directions for the handling of goods and the Air Cargo Manifest records details of the actual shipment, both documents are essential for ensuring that the transportation of goods is executed according to the shipper's specifications and in compliance with international regulations.

When filling out an Air Cargo Manifest form, accuracy and attention to detail are crucial for ensuring smooth customs clearance and avoiding delays. Here are some essential dos and don'ts to consider:

• Double-check the OMB Control Number to ensure it's the current form being used.
• Fill in each required field accurately, as incomplete forms can cause delays.
• Use the correct Air Waybill Type (M=Master, H=House, S=Sub), as this affects the handling of your cargo.
• Include the exact weight of your cargo in kilograms or pounds, as inaccuracies can lead to significant issues.
• For consolidation shipments, make sure to properly identify the consolidator and de-consolidator if applicable.
• Attach copies of air waybills if you're not completing boxes 12 through 17, ensuring that the statement "Cargo as per air waybills attached" is clearly indicated on the form.
• Before submission, review all details for accuracy to prevent any discrepancies.
• Include the complete shipper and consignee name and address to avoid confusion or misdelivery.
• Ensure the nature of goods is clearly described, as vague descriptions can raise suspicions and lead to inspections.
• Remember to list the correct ports of lading and unlading, including the flight number for tracking purposes.

• Don’t leave any required fields blank, even if you think they’re not applicable. If in doubt, seek clarification.
• Avoid guessing weights or measurements; ensure all data is precise and verified.
• Don't use outdated forms. Always check the OMB Control Number and expiration date to ensure compliance.
• Refrain from submitting incomplete documents. Ensure air waybills and other necessary attachments are included if you’re referencing them.
• Don't neglect the importance of legibility. If the form is manually filled, make sure it’s readable to avoid misinterpretation.
• Avoid using incorrect or outdated terminology for the air waybill type and other technical details.
• Don’t misidentify the shipper or consignee, as this can lead to legal complications and delays.
• Avoid underestimating the paperwork’s completion time. Take your time to avoid errors.
• Don’t overlook the instructions on the back of the form, as they can provide useful guidance and clarify doubts.
• Avoid assuming all cargo descriptions are self-explanatory. Provide detailed, clear descriptions to facilitate smooth customs processing.

• One common misconception is that the Air Cargo Manifest form can only be filled out manually. In truth, this form can be prepared both manually and by automated means, offering flexibility to the carriers in how they choose to complete it.
• Many believe that the Air Cargo Manifest form must always be the official CBP Form 7509. However, carriers have the option to use the previous ICAO standard form as an alternative, provided it contains all the required information detailed for CBP Form 7509.
• There's a misunderstanding that every box on the Air Cargo Manifest form must be filled in. Actually, boxes 8 and 9 are specifically reserved for consolidation shipments only and are meant to be used by freight forwarders preparing a consolidated manifest, not by all users of the form.
• Some assume that information on the air waybill number and type must be manually entered into the form for each item. Nevertheless, copies of air waybills can be attached to the form, requiring only that boxes 10 and 11 be completed, along with a statement indicating that cargo details are as per the attached air waybills.
• A misconception exists that the Air Cargo Manifest form is only applicable to U.S.-based carriers. In fact, this form is required by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection for all carriers, both domestic and international, that transport cargo to and from the United States.
• Finally, there is a belief that once the Air Cargo Manifest form is submitted, no further comments or feedback can be provided on the estimated burden or information collection. Contrary to this belief, comments regarding the burden estimate can be sent to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Regulations and Rulings, ensuring continuous improvement and accuracy in estimated completion times.

• Understanding the Air Cargo Manifest form is essential for those involved in international air freight. This form serves as a declaration by the carrier or agent, detailing the cargo contents aboard an aircraft. It must be submitted to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).

• The OMB Control Number (1651-0001) and expiration date are crucial details that validate the form. These elements ensure that the form is currently recognized and accepted by the authorities.

• Information required on the form includes flight details, ports of lading and unlading, shipper and consignee details, and the nature of the goods. This comprehensive data helps customs officials efficiently process and inspect incoming cargo.

• The form accommodates different types of air waybills (M=Master, H=House, S=Sub), allowing for a variety of cargo shipments. Indicating the correct type is vital for proper handling and customs clearance.

• Consolidators and de-consolidators have specific fields (8 and 9) reserved for their use when preparing a consolidated manifest. This feature streamlines the process for shipments involving multiple consignees.

• For those using the Air Cargo Manifest form, an alternative is available. Carriers may attach copies of air waybills and state, "Cargo as per air waybills attached," filling in only boxes 10 and 11, thereby simplifying the documentation process for certain shipments.

• Completing the form accurately and within the estimated average time of 15 minutes helps ensure timely processing. Inaccuracies or missing information can lead to delays in customs clearance.

• Feedback on the paperwork burden of the form can be directed to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Regulations and Rulings. Such feedback is important for continuous improvement of the documentation process.