The TCCU Published message TCCU17-170 published a Reminder to the customs brokerage clients regarding duplicate cargo control number (CCN) errors.  The errors are created when a customs broker submits an entry and the cargo control number is already on file in the CBSA system.  There are many reasons in why these errors occur and I have highlighted some of the reasons in my article "Are Your PARS Stickers Costing You Money?".  

The TCCU Notice also suggest that carriers may be able to use the Release Notification System Query functionality to determine essentially the entry number associated with the reject yet many carriers may not be subscribed to the RNS system.  Carriers can subscribe to the RNS system since it is independent of CBSA's  ACI system.  The RNS system will allow carriers to query their Cargo Control Numbers, obtain electronic proof of releases for their shipments and may assist them with their awareness of Canadian Food Inspection Agency controlled shipments involving meat which may require re-inspections.  A RNS subscription service is available through eManifest Express.  

Carriers should also note the ACI system will reject their cargo declaration if their is a duplicate CCN.  CBSA will also send out a ACI "Document Not on File" message if the customs broker's or importer's customs declaration is not matched to a carrier's ACI cargo declaration (CCN) .  Carriers can use this message to spot cargo control numbers that may have been incorrectly entered.

Reminder*

Duplicate Cargo Control Numbers

If you receive a reject message on your release transaction for “invalid status of request/cargo control number” or “ccn in history” (error code 464 and T36) there is no need to contact the TCCU hotline during the day or after business hours. These reject messages mean the cargo control number (CCN) has been used previously. In order to correct the reject, a new cargo control number is required from the carrier.

These are straightforward reject messages and no assistance is required from the TCCU hotline to resolve this.

If you need to know where this cargo control was used, you may contact the carrier. Alternatively, you or the carrier may transmit a status query through the Release Notification System (RNS) which can provide this information.   For more information on the status query function, please consult the RNS Electronic Commerce Clients Requirements Document (ECCRD).  If needed, you may request a copy of the RNS ECCRD by email at TCCU-USTCC@cbsa-asfc.gc.ca.