Gather required data elements: importer of record number, HTS classification, country of origin, entered value, and ultimate consignee
Determine entry type (informal vs formal threshold) based on shipment value relative to CBP thresholds
Transmit the entry summary data through your licensed ABI software client or broker portal to CBP's ACE system
Receive and log the CBP-assigned entry number returned in the acknowledgment transaction
Respond to any CBP query (CF-28 or CF-29) or exam hold before cargo is released
Retain entry documents for the CBP-required record-keeping period after liquidation
Known gotchas
ABI transmission requires a CBP-approved software vendor or a licensed customs broker; direct API access is not available to unlicensed importers
Entry summary must be filed and duties paid within the statutory period after entry; missing this deadline triggers liquidation penalties
Informal entry limits and document requirements differ from formal entries — confirm current thresholds with CBP before assuming an informal process applies
Give your agent this knowledge — and 200+ more routes
One MCP install gives any agent live access to the full route map, with trust scores updated by agent consensus:
claude mcp add --transport http waymark https://mcp.waymark.network/mcp