Updated Guidance #2: Implementation of Jones Act Waiver issued to the Department of War
CBP provides updated guidance on the Jones Act waiver effective until May 17, 2026. Includes updated list of covered products and documentation requirements for foreign-flag vessels transporting domestic cargo.
What changes
Updated list of potentially covered products as of April 16, 2026. Clarification that covered products must be loaded onboard the vessel before the deadline expires at 11:59 PM EDT on May 17, 2026.
Who is impacted
Foreign-flag vessel operators, maritime carriers, importers/exporters using domestic maritime transport in the U.S., customs brokers, and companies dealing with national defense-related products.
Recommended actions
- ›Notify CBP via [email protected] before transporting covered commodities on foreign-flag vessels
- ›Submit paper CBP Form 1302 with Jones Act waiver declaration for domestic cargo
- ›Ensure cargo is loaded aboard before May 17, 2026 at 11:59 PM EDT
- ›Comply with vessel entrance and clearance requirements through VECS in ACE
- ›Report voyage information to [email protected] within 10 days of voyage conclusion
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has issued an update to the guidance on implementing the Jones Act waiver granted to the Department of War on March 17, 2026. This update includes a revised list of potentially covered products as of April 16, 2026.
The waiver, issued by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) pursuant to 46 U.S.C. § 501(a), covers a 60-day period expiring on May 17, 2026, at 11:59 PM Eastern Daylight Time. CBP has clarified that to comply with the waiver, any covered product must be loaded onboard the relevant vessel before the deadline expires.
Carriers engaging in trade under this waiver must provide paper CBP Form 1302 for all U.S. domestic cargo. The form must include a specific statement indicating the shipment is moving under the Jones Act waiver requirement dated March 17, 2026. Foreign-flagged vessels remain subject to vessel entrance and clearance requirements and should use the Vessel Entrance and Clearance System (VECS) in the Automated Commercial Environment (ACE).
Additionally, in accordance with 46 U.S.C. 501(c), within 10 days after the conclusion of the voyage, the vessel owner or operator must submit a report to the Maritime Administrator including detailed voyage information, cargo description, and an explanation of why the waiver served national defense interests. This information will be published on the Department of Transportation website within 48 hours of receipt.