The type of data that must be submitted to CBP through the ACAS system depends on the specific circumstances of the import or export transaction. Generally, the data that must be submitted includes information about the goods being imported or exported, the parties involved in the transaction (e.g., the importer, exporter, and any brokers or intermediaries), and the terms of the transaction (e.g., the value of the goods, the payment terms, and the method of transportation).

The data should be submitted electronically through the ACAS system, using an electronic data interchange (EDI) system. EDI is a standard format for exchanging business data electronically, and it allows for the automated submission of data to CBP. In order to use the ACAS system, businesses must first register with CBP and obtain an EDI system and an ACAS ID number. Once registered, businesses can use the GeTS ACAS system to submit their data electronically, using their EDI system and ACAS ID.

The new ACAS message format has been designed to be compatible with existing Cargo-IMP messages and CBP CAMIR-Air messages. However, there are some slight differences in the way the data is formatted and the timing of the messages. These differences have been put in place to improve the overall quality of the information exchange between air cargo carriers and freight forwarders. CBP has developed an ACAS Implementation Guide, but for quick reference, the messages used for ACAS are as follows: