ABI — the Automated Broker Interface — is the EDI-based interface that allows customs brokers and self-filing importers of record to transmit entry data directly into ACE. ABI is mandatory for formal entries (entries valued over $2,500, plus all entries of merchandise subject to quota or PGA requirements).
The ABI participant ecosystem includes:
- Licensed customs brokers — the dominant ABI filers
- Self-filing importers — large companies that file directly without a broker (typically Fortune 500 importers with their own trade compliance teams)
- Service providers — software vendors (CargoWise, Descartes, Integration Point) whose ABI connectivity their customers use
To become an ABI filer, the participant must apply to CBP, pass a connectivity certification, and obtain an ABI filer code. The filer code (three or four characters) appears on every entry transmitted by that participant.
ABI is built on the ANSI X.12 309 transaction set for entry filings. It supports virtually every entry-related message type:
- Entry/Entry Summary (CBP Form 3461 / 7501 data)
- Cargo release status responses
- PGA data submissions
- Drawback claims
- Post-summary corrections
- Protests
Once filed via ABI, an entry is processed by CBP within ACE. The filer receives status messages back through ABI as the entry moves through cargo release, document review, and liquidation.
ABI's predecessor was the Automated Broker Interface to ACS — same name, different platform. The migration to ACE was completed in 2016.