The Section 321 data pilot is like a “known shipper” program similar to the Nexus and Global Entry program which is used to facilitate passenger travelers. By sending additional shipment details, CBP can focus their efforts on other carriers who do not submit these additional details.

If you consider a highway carrier moving large volumes of section 321 shipments might be stopped at the border each day for 2 hours so CBP can conduct random inspections of the cargo. Taking the effort to collect and submit this additional data can reap large rewards in time and cost savings. A carrier sitting idle at the border each day for inspections adds up thousands of dollars spent waiting for CBP to conduct inspections.