Do you import into the U.S.? If so, Google your company name and the word “imports”. Wow!
There it is, your bill of lading information on display and ready to be purchased by your competition or even worse, thieves.
Keep Your Manifest Data Secure
Data-collecting companies such as PIERS, Zepol and Import Genius can access importer’s manifest information and potentially share it with your competitors. The Freedom of Information Act states that cargo manifest data is public information, allowing companies to access and dispense information you may think is private.
What Import Data is Made Public?
Public manifest information includes:
- Name and address
- General character of cargo
- Number of packages
- Gross weight
- Name of the vessel, aircraft, or carrier
- Seaport or airport of loading and of discharge
- Country of origin
- Trademarks appearing on the goods or packages
Although legally an importer’s manifest data can be shared, importers have the ability to request manifest confidentiality. TRG recommends keeping your import information confidential. Since your voyage and product information is public, thieves can target your plane or boat. Confidentiality can help prevent theft since your voyage and product information will not be easily accessible. This also allows you to keep your private business practices from your competitors.
How Do You Request Manifest Confidentiality?
Previously, importers could request this online, however as of March 2011 Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will only accept this request in writing. An importer’s name or company’s name and information on their entry documents are confidential to CBP. Under no circumstances would CBP disclose an importer’s name and import information to the public. However, the privacy statute, 19 CFR 103.31 (d), allows the media to collect manifest data at every port of entry. Reporters collect and publish names of importers from vessel manifest data unless an importer/shipper requests confidentiality. The importer can submit a letter to the Privacy Branch requesting that their company name not be disclosed on the vessel manifest. The confidential protection is valid for 2 years, after which time a renewal is needed.
At your request, a TRG representative can assist you in beginning the process and answer any additional questions you might have about removing your manifest information from databases available to your competitors. This needs to be done every two years.
Have the following information available when you are ready to submit your request.
- Importer’s name, address
- Contact phone and email
- Requestor’s role (importer, consignee, U.S. shipper)
- Relationship of party making request (1st party, on behalf of self or company, or 3rd party agent or representative)
- Date of submission
- Type of confidentiality (imports, exports, or both)
- Tax ID number
- Any variation of names to be protected
