Guide
How CBSA defines the cargo control number, accepted characters, barcode symbologies, and approval testing.
For Canadian highway cargo, the cargo control number (CCN) combines the CBSA-assigned carrier code with a carrier-assigned shipment reference. CBSA's Portal guidance allows 5 to 25 characters made from letters, numbers, and hyphens. A PARS label is used when the Pre-Arrival Review System release process applies, but PARS is not the universal release path for every shipment. Barcode printing is a separate compliance step: CBSA permits Code 39 or Code 128 and requires the carrier's sample label to meet its published format, size, human-readable-text, and testing requirements.
The CCN begins with the carrier code assigned by CBSA. The carrier then adds a unique shipment reference. CBSA says the complete value must be 5 to 25 characters and may contain letters, numbers, and hyphens. Use the exact carrier code associated with the movement.
The shipment reference is carrier-assigned, not a number generated by BorderPro or automatically supplied by a customs broker. Coordinate the reference with the broker when a PARS release is used and preserve uniqueness in your own records.
ACI cargo and conveyance reporting is the carrier's advance-data obligation when it applies. PARS is one pre-arrival release option used by an importer or broker. The same CCN can connect the carrier's cargo report with the associated release request, but the two processes have different responsible parties and statuses.
Do not assume every ACI cargo record needs a PARS label. Confirm the release process and reference with the importer or broker for that load.
CBSA's carrier-barcode specification permits Code 39 or Code 128. It also specifies dimensions, narrow-bar characteristics, quiet zones, print contrast, placement, and human-readable text. Generating a scannable-looking image does not prove that a label meets those rules.
Follow the current CBSA memorandum and barcode-testing instructions before operational use. BorderPro does not currently generate or certify production-ready PARS labels.
Check that the CCN starts with the correct CBSA carrier code, remains within the published total length, uses only permitted characters, and matches the reference exchanged with the filing and release parties.
For a printed PARS label, separately check the symbology and physical specification and complete CBSA's required testing or approval steps. A generic web barcode should be treated as an illustration, not a border document.
CBSA’s eManifest Portal guidance says the complete CCN must contain 5 to 25 characters, including the carrier code.
CBSA’s Portal guidance allows letters, numbers, and hyphens. Confirm your filing channel’s current validation before submission.
No. CBSA’s carrier-barcode specification permits Code 39 or Code 128 and imposes physical printing and testing requirements in addition to symbology.
Do not assume so. A production label must meet CBSA’s current format, print, human-readable-text, and testing requirements. BorderPro does not certify production barcodes.
Written for operational context by the BorderPro team. Not legal or customs-compliance advice — verify program specifics with CBSA, CBP, or a licensed customs broker before acting on them. Programs evolve and this page may not reflect every recent change.
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