CPSC eFiling in ACE System: Step-by-Step Guide for 2026 Compliance

As the mandatory enforcement date of July 8, 2026 approaches, U.S. importers and international shippers must prepare for the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) eFiling requirements through CBP's Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) system. Failure to comply can result in shipment delays, holds, increased exams, and higher costs.

At Chrislion Logistics (www.Chinashippings.com), our experienced U.S. customs brokerage team helps clients navigate these complex regulatory changes smoothly. With strong expertise in U.S. customs clearance, we ensure your CPSC-regulated shipments clear efficiently while minimizing risks.

What Is CPSC eFiling?

CPSC eFiling requires importers to electronically submit key data from Certificates of Compliance (CPC or GCC) via the PGA Message Set in CBP's ACE system at the time of entry. This shifts from "available upon request" to proactive electronic transmission.

Two Main Filing Methods:

Method	Description	Best For	Data Required
Full PGA Message Set	Submit all certificate details directly during entry filing	Occasional or one-time imports	7 data elements
Reference PGA Message Set	Pre-register in CPSC Product Registry and submit only certificate identifiers	Regular/repeated imports of same products	3 identifiers (simplified)

Step-by-Step Operation Guide for CPSC eFiling in ACE

1. Determine if Your Products Are Affected

Check HTS codes flagged by CPSC (approximately 600 codes).

Confirm if your consumer products require a Children's Product Certificate (CPC) or General Certificate of Conformity (GCC).

Products include toys, electronics, furniture, apparel, etc.

Pro Tip from Chrislion Logistics: Our compliance specialists can review your product list and provide a free initial assessment.

2. Prepare Required Certificates

Ensure you have valid certificates with:

Product identifiers (e.g., GTIN)

Applicable CPSC safety rules (16 CFR Part 1110)

Manufacturer details

Test dates and lab information

Record-keeping contact

3. Register for the CPSC Product Registry (Recommended for Frequent Importers)

Go to the official CPSC eFiling portal: efiling.saferproducts.gov.

Create a Business Account (self-registration is open).

Provide company details, Importer of Record (IOR) number, and contact information.

Add products manually, via CSV bulk upload, or through API integration.

Certify the product entries and generate Certificate Identifiers (Certifier ID, Product ID, Version ID).

Note: The Registry does not automatically sync with ACE - you must share identifiers with your customs broker.

4. Work with Your Customs Broker for ACE Submission

For Full PGA Message Set:

Provide all 7 required data elements to your broker for each shipment.

Broker transmits via PGA Message Set during ACE entry filing.

For Reference PGA Message Set:

Share the 3 Certificate Identifiers from the Product Registry.

Broker submits the abbreviated Reference Message Set.

Include appropriate disclaim codes if a product is flagged but exempt.

5. File the Entry in ACE

Your licensed customs broker (or software provider) integrates the CPSC PGA Message Set into the standard import entry. This happens electronically before or at the time of arrival.

6. Monitor and Troubleshoot

Track entry status in ACE.

Address any warning messages promptly.

Maintain records for at least 5 years.

Why Choose Chrislion Logistics for U.S. Customs Clearance?

With years of experience handling U.S. imports from China and Asia, Chrislion Logistics stands out as your reliable partner:

Expert U.S. Customs Brokerage: We stay updated on CPSC, CBP, and other PGA requirements.

Seamless Integration: We support both Full and Reference PGA Message Sets and assist with Product Registry setup.

End-to-End Solutions: From China shipping (sea/air) to door-to-door U.S. delivery, including Amazon FBA.

Risk Mitigation: Proactive compliance checks to avoid holds, demurrage, and penalties.

Competitive Rates & Fast Clearance: Minimize delays and costs with our optimized processes.

Our team helps hundreds of importers transition smoothly to the new CPSC eFiling rules.

Action Items Before July 8, 2026

Audit your product portfolio now.

Register in the CPSC Product Registry during the voluntary phase.

Contact your freight forwarder and broker to test filings.

Build internal processes for ongoing compliance.

Don't wait until the last minute. Early preparation ensures smooth operations after the July 8, 2026 deadline.

Get Expert Help Today

Ready to secure your U.S. customs clearance process? Contact Chrislion Logistics at www.Chinashippings.com for personalized guidance on CPSC eFiling, ACE submissions, and full logistics support.