sample-confidentiality-agreementProtect your Information.

Did you know that your confidential Import and Export Bill of Lading Manifest information is available for review?  There are companies that actually data mine this information daily and provide it to your competitors, customers, logistics firms, and anyone else that is willing to pay for it.  Did you know you can protect this data?  At Scarbrough we value your confidentiality and are pleased to introduce you to the “Government Confidentiality Request” mechanism to have this information removed from public record.

But first let us share some additional information about it.

The Primary Purpose of the Government Confidentiality Request is to keep your sensitive Import and Export inward manifest information including identifying marks and numbers confidential or from being disclosed to the public for a period of two years.

According to Customs Regulations, “The Freedom of Information Act, as Amended (5 U.S.C. 552), provides for access to information and records developed or maintained by Federal Agencies.”  U.S. Customs and Border Protection is required to make available the following AMS Manifest Data Elements to the public.

Consignee Name, Consignee Address, Shipper Name, Shipper Address, Notify Party Name, Notify Party Address, Description of Goods, Bill of Lading Number, Vessel Name, Vessel Country, Carrier Code, Voyage Number, District/Port of Unlading, Estimated Arrival Date, Foreign Port of Lading, Manifest Quantity, Manifest Units, Weight, Weight Unit, Piece Count, Container Number, Seal Number

How do I File this Request?

You can see an example of the Confidentiality request here.  Once you have completed the form with up to 10 known variations of your name then you can email it to:   VesselManifestConfidentiality@cbp.dhs.gov

Remember that the above inward manifest data elements will be available for public disclosure without this request.  We recommend that you resubmit this request to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) every 18 months to ensure no lapse in coverage.

If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us at ktaylor@scarbrough-intl.com.