CBP’s CAPE System Now Operational; NAFTZ Monitoring Early Implementation – April 21, 2026

CBP’s Consolidated Administration and Processing of Entries (CAPE) system became operational April 20, 2026. CAPE is CBP’s new ACE Portal process for submitting certain declarations related to IEEPA duty refunds.

NAFTZ has received a limited number of reports of technical issues following the launch of CAPE, but we are not currently seeing any indication that these are specific to FTZ entries. As with any new system implementation, some initial variability is expected as users begin working through real-world scenarios. NAFTZ is actively gathering feedback from its members and sharing that information with the appropriate agencies to support a smooth implementation.

To date, NAFTZ has received reports from filers encountering error messages on both Type 01 and Type 06 entries, with the most common being the “UNABLE TO CALCULATE DUTY” message. At the same time, we have also received reports from filers whose Type 06 entries were accepted without error. Based on what we have seen so far, these early issues do not appear to reflect a confirmed FTZ-specific problem, though we are continuing to monitor member experience closely. CBP’s FAQ page is being updated multiple times per day, and now includes definitions of CAPE error messages, including the “UNABLE TO CALCULATE DUTY” message and can be found here.

This follows NAFTZ’s recent updates noting that CBP had indicated Type 06 entries are expected to be accommodated in CAPE and that members should not assume there is a separate FTZ-specific limitation on CAPE filing at this time.

Reminder: All CAPE filings must include the required certification below, and filers should ensure they are able to make that certification based on the facts and documentation supporting each submission:

“I attest to the best of my knowledge and belief that: (1) the country of origin, entry type, Harmonized Tariff Schedule of the United States (HTSUS) classification(s), and valuation for each entry number is true and correct; and (2) the goods were not entered in violation of any applicable United States law, order, or rule. I understand that if I make or cause others to make material false statements or omissions to CBP, including in connection with a request for tariff reimbursement, I may be subject to criminal prosecution and civil liability, including but not limited to under 18 U.S.C. §§ 1001, 542, 545, 19 USC § 1592, and 31 U.S.C. § 3729(a).”

Members experiencing CAPE-related issues, whether on FTZ or non-FTZ entries, are encouraged to share details with NAFTZ so we can continue identifying patterns and elevating relevant operational concerns with CBP.

Please Note: When evaluating tariff announcements, carefully review each Executive Order, the corresponding Federal Register Notices, and CSMS messages in detail. Consult with your trade attorney or advisor to understand how these measures specifically impact your U.S. FTZ operations.