U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is currently issuing formal notices to several importers—including CTPAT-certified companies—warning that their Importer of Record (IOR) numbers risk being voided, effective November 18 at 12:01 a.m. ET.
The impending deactivations stem from discrepancies and data inaccuracies found on previously submitted CBP Form 5106 (Create/Update Importer Identity Form). If an IOR number is voided, the importer will be unable to clear cargo or file entry summaries through U.S. ports of entry until the issue is fully resolved.
Key Action Items for Importers
To avoid costly clearance delays, cargo holds, or the loss of trusted trader privileges, importers must act immediately to ensure their records are accurate and synchronized across all CBP platforms:
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Audit ACE Portal Records: Log into the ACE Secure Data Portal to review current Form 5106 data. Ensure legal business names, physical addresses, EIN/tax IDs, and authorized corporate officers are up to date and match official filings.
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Sync CTPAT Accounts: Importers participating in CTPAT must verify that their active IOR numbers in the CTPAT Portal match the updated records in ACE.
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Submit Necessary Updates: Any discrepancies must be corrected promptly in ACE to prevent automated deactivations before the November 18 deadline.
How Sobel Can Help
Navigating ACE portal updates and resolving customs data holds requires quick, precise coordination. The trade compliance experts at Sobel Network Shipping Co., Inc. are available to assist clients in auditing their active IOR profiles, filing updated CBP Form 5106 details, and ensuring full compliance to keep shipments moving without interruption.
Contact your Sobel representative today for support verifying your account status before November 18.
