What documents do I need to file a CAPE declaration?
Quick answer
You need your ES-003 entry-summary CSV from the ACE portal — the universal export every U.S. broker and importer of record can produce. Tariffi extracts all required data (entry numbers, HTS codes, duty amounts, liquidation dates) from this single file. No additional paperwork is required to start the process.
Detailed Answer
The ES-003 entry-summary CSV is the only document you need to get started with Tariffi. Here is what it contains and how to obtain it.
What is an ES-003? The ES-003 is CBP's standardized entry-summary export from the Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) portal. It contains every field needed for CAPE declaration preparation: entry numbers, HTS codes, duty amounts paid, entry dates, liquidation dates, country of origin, importer of record number, and filer codes.
How to get your ES-003:
- If you have ACE portal access: Log in to ace.cbp.gov, navigate to your importer account, and export the entry-summary report in CSV format. Our ACE portal signup guide walks through getting access if you do not have it yet.
- If your broker has ACE access: Most customs brokers can pull the ES-003 for their clients. Ask your current broker for an ES-003 export filtered by your Importer of Record number. Tariffi handles the rest.
- Multi-broker portfolios: If you work with multiple brokers, each can export their portion. Tariffi supports multi-file upload and automatically groups entries by IOR number.
What Tariffi extracts: Our parser identifies qualifying IEEPA and Section 301 entries, calculates estimated recovery amounts, flags entries needing attention (e.g., near the 180-day liquidation window), and prepares the CAPE declaration CSV.
What you do NOT need: No customs bond paperwork, no HTS classification research, no separate protest forms, no legal briefs. Tariffi and the broker partner handle all downstream preparation. The only thing you sign is the Contingency Fee Agreement and Limited Power of Attorney — both presented electronically during intake.
ES-003 is a strategic constraint, not a limitation. It keeps preparation deterministic and auditable under 19 CFR Part 163.
Related Questions
What is an ES-003 file and how do I get it?
An ES-003 is CBP's standardized entry-summary export from the ACE portal in CSV format. It contains all data needed for CAPE declarations: entry numbers, HTS codes, duty amounts, and liquidation dates. Your customs broker can pull it, or you can export it directly from ace.cbp.gov if you have portal access.
How do I get a tariff refund?
Upload your ACE ES-003 entry-summary CSV to Tariffi. Our platform analyzes your entries for IEEPA and Section 301 overpayments, prepares the CAPE declaration data, and routes it to a CBP-licensed customs broker partner who files under their own license. No advance fees — you pay a contingency only when CBP approves your refund.
Can I file a CAPE declaration myself?
Technically yes, if you have ACE portal access and a licensed customs broker willing to file. However, preparing the declaration data requires cross-referencing entry-level HTS codes against the CAPE-eligible tariff schedule, calculating duty differentials, and formatting to CBP's specifications. Tariffi automates this and includes broker filing at no extra cost.
Do I need a customs broker for a tariff refund?
Yes. Federal law (19 U.S.C. § 1641) requires a CBP-licensed customs broker to file CAPE declarations. Tariffi is a data-preparation platform, not a broker — we prepare your declaration data and route it to a licensed broker partner who reviews, approves, and transmits under their own ABI filer code at no extra cost to you.
Need help?
Upload your ES-003 to see how much you could recover, or talk to our team.