CAPE System Launch: What U.S. Importers Need to Know

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has confirmed that the CAPE (Consolidated Administration and Processing of Entries) system will launch on April 20, 2026. This electronic portal within ACE will allow importers of record and their authorized customs brokers to file for refunds of IEEPA tariff duties that were ruled unconstitutional by the Supreme Court.

What is CAPE?

CAPE is a new module within the ACE (Automated Commercial Environment) Portal specifically designed to process IEEPA tariff refund declarations. It eliminates the need for paper-based filings and streamlines the refund process.

Who Should Prepare?

Any U.S. importer who paid duties under IEEPA tariffs — specifically HTS Chapter 99 subheadings 9903.01.25 through 9903.01.70 — should begin preparing now.

Steps to Take Now

Verify your ACE Portal access — If you don’t have an account, apply now. Activation takes 4-6 weeks.
Register an ACH refund account — This is separate from your duty payment account.
Compile your entry numbers — Identify all entries with IEEPA Chapter 99 duties.
Check liquidation status — Phase 1 covers unliquidated and recently liquidated entries.

Phase 1 Coverage

The initial launch covers:

Unliquidated entries
Entries liquidated within approximately 80 days of filing

Future phases will expand to cover additional entry categories.

For a complete walkthrough, read our Step-by-Step Guide or check your eligibility.