pCustoms platform depends on access to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) data via its Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) system, through third-party integration. This dependency enables users to submit customs filings, retrieve real-time status updates, and track the complete lifecycle of their import and export declarations efficiently.
However, like all mission-critical systems, the CBP ACE platform can occasionally experience delays that may affect the timing of filing processing.
Why you might experience delays
In rare cases, the CBP ACE system may process filings with significant delays, ranging from 4 to 6 hours or more. These delays typically occur when:
CBP’s ACE system is undergoing maintenance or system updates.
There are unexpected technical issues within CBP’s backend.
There are widespread regulatory changes affecting import and tariff processes.
Given the recent surge in regulatory updates and tariff adjustments, delays may occur more frequently as CBP performs system updates and maintenance to reflect these changes. Such delays are more common when rules are evolving rapidly, and are expected to continue until the ACE system is stabilized and fully up-to-date.
How to check CBP ACE system status
You can always check the current operational status of the ACE system directly on CBP’s public dashboard:
This dashboard is maintained by CBP and provides updates on:
System uptime and health
Scheduled maintenance
Known disruptions or delays
What this means for you
No Action Needed: If you notice that your filings appear to be "stuck" in a pending state, there is no need to resubmit. The filings are already in the ACE queue and will be processed once the system resumes normal operation.
Automatic Updates: pCustoms will automatically reflect the correct filing status as soon as CBP processes the submission.
We Monitor Closely: Our systems monitor CBP’s availability continuously. If we detect an outage or extended delay, we’ll do our best to notify you through in-app alerts or emails.
Need help?
If your filing appears to be delayed beyond 12 hours, or if you’re unsure whether it’s been received by CBP, please contact our support team. We’re here to assist you with anything you need.
pCustoms platform relies on data from CBP’s ACE system, via third-party integration, to process and track import filings in real time. While the system typically operates reliably, delays can occasionally occur, especially during periods of frequent regulatory changes and CBP system updates or maintenance. This article explains the potential causes of such delays, how to monitor ACE system status via CBP’s official dashboard, and what steps, if any, users should take when delays arise.