CBP launches CAPE Phase 1, opening the largest duty refund opportunity to date—but strict requirements and exclusions demand immediate action.
CAPE Launches in ACE
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officially launched the CAPE (Claims and Protest Entry) process in the ACE Portal on April 20, 2026, opening what is likely the largest duty refund filing window in U.S. customs history.
The CAPE functionality is now available across importer, broker, and filer accounts, allowing for bulk refund submissions tied to IEEPA-related duties.
Filers must submit declarations using a single-column CSV format, listing entry numbers only. Each submission is capped at 9,999 entries, with multiple filings allowed per importer.
Refund Processing and ACH Requirement
Refunds will be issued electronically and consolidated at the Importer of Record (IOR) level. However, ACH enrollment is mandatory.
CBP has made it clear:
- Refunds will not be issued without validated ACH banking information in the ACE portal
- This must be confirmed before filing, not after
Phase 1 Limitations Importers Must Understand
While Phase 1 opens significant opportunity, it excludes several categories of entries:
- Finally liquidated entries beyond 80 days
- Entries tied to drawback claims
- Entries with active protests (unless withdrawn)
- AD/CVD-affected entries
- Entries not filed in ACE
For these entries, CAPE is not a solution—yet.
What Importers Should Do Now
Time is critical. Importers and brokers should prioritize:
- Filing CAPE declarations for eligible entries
- Validating ACH details for every IOR
- Identifying excluded entries and preparing protests within the 180-day window
- Monitoring CBP guidance for Phase 2 expansion
What This Means for Importers
CAPE is not just a filing tool—it’s a strategic recovery opportunity.
Importers who act early will:
- Recover duties faster
- Avoid processing delays
- Preserve eligibility for excluded entries through timely protests
Those who delay risk missing refund opportunities entirely.
How Alba Can Help
Alba’s Trade Advisory Services help importers:
- Identify eligible entries for CAPE
- Manage bulk filing strategies
- Preserve rights through structured protest strategies
- Ensure full compliance with evolving CBP requirements
