Cargo Manifest

A cargo manifest is a comprehensive document that lists all cargo items loaded onto a specific aircraft flight. It serves as an official record providing detailed information about each shipment including descriptions, quantities, weights, and destinations. In the United States, this document must be filed on Customs Form 7509 and contain all required information regarding all cargo on board the aircraft. The flight manifest data is owned by airlines, who are responsible for ensuring accurate transmission to customs authorities prior to arrival.

An Emirates SkyCargo flight EK 9748 departing Dubai (DXB) for New York JFK would include a cargo manifest listing all shipments such as AWB 176-12345675 (electronics, 15 pieces, 450 kg) and AWB 176-98765432 (pharmaceuticals, 8 pieces, 125 kg). A Lufthansa Cargo flight LH 8455 from Frankfurt (FRA) to Los Angeles (LAX) would manifest shipments including AWB 020-55667788 (automotive parts, 25 pieces, 1,200 kg) and multiple consolidations under master air waybills with individual house waybill breakdowns.

• flight manifest
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What is the IATA standard message format for electronic cargo manifest transmission?

The IATA standard electronic format is XFFM (XML Flight Manifest Message), currently version 2.00, which is compatible with customs systems like ASYCUDAWorld version 4.3.2 and higher used by over 90 countries. Airlines must provide advance flight manifest information using IATA Cargo-XML standards prior to flight arrival.

When must airlines file the cargo manifest with US Customs?

The air cargo manifest must be submitted prior to the arrival of the cargo in the U.S., ensuring that customs has the necessary documentation in advance. Completed forms can be submitted electronically via the U.S. Customs and Border Protection's Automated Manifest System, and the manifest must reference an 11-digit air waybill number for each air waybill it covers.