CBP Form 6051D is the Detention Notice and Custody Receipt for Detained Property. CBP issues it when it detains cargo, explaining why and for how long, and it is now delivered electronically through ACE. A detention is not a final decision on admissibility.
What Is CBP Form 6051D?
CBP Form 6051D tells an importer that CBP has detained their cargo. Under 19 CFR 151.16, the notice covers when the detention started, the specific reason, the expected length, the nature of any tests, and information that could speed resolution. CBP also uses the 6051D as a custody receipt when it temporarily detains electronic devices at the border.
Who Uses CBP Form 6051D?
- Importers whose cargo is detained by CBP
- Customs brokers managing detentions for clients
- Travelers whose electronic devices are temporarily detained
Key Rules at a Glance
| Topic | What applies |
|---|---|
| Delivery | Filed electronically in ACE. Importers with an ACE Portal account and "Portal" communication get it by email; others by mail |
| Responding | Importers with ACE Portal access can respond through the ACE Forms application |
| Not final | A detention notice is not a final determination of admissibility |
| Final decision | Due within 30 days from when the merchandise is presented for CBP examination |
| Forced labor (UFLPA) detentions | The importer has 30 days to respond and may choose to export or destroy the goods |
What to Do When You Receive Form 6051D
- Read the reason for detention and what CBP needs.
- Gather the documents or evidence requested, such as supply chain records for forced labor reviews.
- Respond through ACE Forms or as the notice instructs, within the time allowed.
- Track the 30-day admissibility decision and plan inventory and cash accordingly.
Related CBP Forms and Official Sources
Related forms: CBP Form 4647 (notice to mark/redeliver) · CBP Forms 28 and 29 · CBP Form 19 (protest)
Official sources:
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is CBP Form 6051D?
It is the Detention Notice and Custody Receipt for Detained Property, issued when CBP detains cargo or temporarily detains property such as electronic devices.
How long can CBP detain my cargo?
CBP must make a final admissibility determination within 30 days from when the merchandise is presented for examination.
How do I receive and respond to Form 6051D?
CBP files it in ACE. Importers with an ACE Portal account set to Portal communication receive it by email and can respond through ACE Forms; others receive it by mail.
What if my goods are detained under UFLPA?
The importer has 30 days to respond and may choose to export or destroy the goods.
