More Cargo Details Going Public: Manifest Modernization Act Expands Disclosure Rules in 30 Days

The Manifest Modernization Act of 2025 updates the rules for what information needs to be included on manifests for cargo arriving in the U.S. by vessel, vehicle, or aircraft. Key changes involve adding the specific Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) subheading for classifying goods and identifying the last country the cargo passed through before arrival. This information, along with other existing manifest data, will be publicly available. These new requirements kick in just 30 days after the Act becomes official.

Unpacking the Details: What's New on the Manifest?

This Act digs deeper into the specifics required when goods enter the country. Under the amended Section 431 of the Tariff Act of 1930, manifests must now include not just a general description but the precise HTS subheading – that's the detailed classification code used globally for customs purposes. Think of it like going from saying 'shoes' to specifying 'waterproof hiking boots, size 10'. Additionally, the manifest needs to list the 'last country through which the cargo was transported,' adding another layer beyond just the country of origin. This applies across the board – ships docking, trucks crossing the border, and planes landing.

Open Books on Imports: Who Gets to See What?

A major shift here is the public disclosure aspect. The newly required details, like the HTS code and the last transit country, are explicitly marked as available for public viewing under Section 431. This means competitors, researchers, or anyone interested could potentially access more granular data about what's being imported, by whom, and from where. While this boosts transparency, businesses might have concerns about competitors seeing detailed shipping patterns or specific product classifications. For businesses importing goods, this means adjusting quickly not only to provide the data but also to the reality that more of their import information will be out in the open.

Cleared for Takeoff? Defining 'Aircraft' and the 30-Day Clock

The Act also clarifies (or perhaps broadens) the definition of 'aircraft' in Section 401 of the Tariff Act, defining it as 'any civil, military, or public device' designed for air travel. This wide definition ensures comprehensive coverage but might raise questions about its application to newer or unconventional aerial devices down the line. The most immediate pressure point, however, is the timeline. With these changes taking effect just 30 days post-enactment, businesses involved in importing goods via sea, land, or air will need to scramble to update their documentation processes to comply, potentially adding administrative costs and complexity on short notice.