GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 26, 2026

National Customs Automation Program

Customs officers and importers use the National Customs Automation Program (NCAP)—a U.S.

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Last updated: 26 June 2026Published: 19 June 2025

Source: https://www.cbp.gov/trade/automated

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Definition & Explanation

Customs officers and importers use the National Customs Automation Program (NCAP)—a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) initiative—to replace paper-based clearance at US borders with electronic processing. NCAP introduces digital capabilities incrementally: electronic entry filing, automated document review, and risk-based targeting for physical inspections. Trade partners benefit from shorter dwell times at border facilities and faster cargo release. NCAP is not a generic term for customs digitalization; it is a targeted US program centered on electronic data interchange (EDI) and the end-to-end integration of customs systems across the import chain.

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National Customs Automation Program

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Related Terms

JSON Freight Data Interchange Protocols

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