What is a PAPS shipment?

PAPS is a shipment type required for items and imported goods to pass through Customs and Border Protection (CBP). PAPS is generally the default option when you are bringing in commercial goods by highway carrier or truck. This means that all goods shipped into the U.S. by highway carriers must be clear CBP under PAPS unless they qualify for an exemption or different shipment type.

PAPS was put in place to help speed up the release of commercial import shipments. PAPS still allows each load to be processed by CBP mandates and rules.