Canada & U.S. Cross-Border Permits

Navigating customs and border protection requires specific codes and systems to ensure your freight moves efficiently between the U.S. and Canada.

SCAC (Standard Carrier Alpha Code)

A SCAC is a unique 2–4 letter code assigned to transportation companies (motor carriers, railroads, freight forwarders, and logistics providers) to identify them in shipping, customs, and freight documentation in the U.S. and internationally. Any company that transports goods in the U.S. and participates in electronic freight filing (trucking, rail, air, ocean) is required to have this code.

PAPS (Pre-Arrival Processing System)

The Pre-Arrival Processing System (PAPS) is a U.S. Customs program used for trucking shipments entering the United States. A PAPS sticker is a physical label placed on the truck or shipment to indicate that the cargo has been processed and approved by U.S. Customs. This is required along with the SCAC code.

PARS (Pre-Arrival Review System)

Pre-Arrival Review System (PARS) is the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) program for shipments entering Canada. A PARS sticker is a label that identifies shipments that have been pre-approved by CBSA before arrival at the Canadian border. This is required with the Carrier Code.

Our team of experts can help you with the permit process or to obtain your SCAC code. Contact us here.