On July 3, 2000, brokers were no longer allowed to file U. S. Fish & Wildlife Service (FWS) entries using the U.S. Customs ACS Automated Broker Interface. We experienced numerous problems using the broker interface to file and collect wildlife trade data.

As an alternative, we have developed an Internet-based filing system for all FWS imports and exports. This system, named "eDecs", allows a filer to file the SF 3-177 (Declaration for Importation or Exportation of Fish or Wildlife) electronically with the port where the import/export will occur. It should be noted that other items in your document package (outside the SF 3-177) must still be submitted as hardcopies.

Am I required to use eDecs to file Declarations?

No. The eDecs system has been added as an alternative means of filing. You will still have the option to file paper entries. You may also still continue to use the on-line form

Be aware - You must have Adobe Reader  version 4.0 or higher for fillable forms to work correctly - older versions will not give good results

provided, fill it out, and submit it to us. All three of these options will remain available, and you can file any Declaration using whichever option works best for you at the time.

What costs will I incur to use eDecs? Is special software required?

The costs associated with using the eDecs system should be minimal. You will need Internet connectivity, an e-mail address, and the Microsoft Internet Explorer web browser (version 5.0 or higher). You will not need to purchase any type of special software from the FWS, or any third party. Internet accounts can be purchased for a relatively inexpensive monthly fee, and generally include e-mail access. The Microsoft Internet Explorer web browser can be obtained for free from Microsoft (IE Download).

What are the advantages of using eDecs?

Your eDec Declaration is submitted directly to the appropriate FWS port office prior to shipment. From there, a FWS inspector is able to review the document prior to the shipment date. The system has e-mail notification features available for the inspector to notify you of the status of your submission. The inspector can notify you immediately if the submission has been accepted and provide you with further details to complete the inspection. The inspector can also notify you immediately if a problem or error is found in the submission, and provide you with the opportunity to correct the problem prior to shipment.

The eDecs system provides you with the ability to set up an "account" called your "My eDecs" account. There is no cost associated with having a "My eDecs" account. It is simply a way for you to store basic information that can be pre-loaded into any new Declaration you prepare. Information such as your business name, a contact name, an e-mail address, and a phone number can be stored in your "My eDecs" account, and this information will be automatically loaded with each eDec submission. In addition, for brokers, the system will keep track of all importers and exporters you submit Declarations for and allow you to pick them from a list for future submissions (rather then type all of the information in each time). The system will also store a list of all unique species that you identify on a Declaration, and again allow you to pick the same species for future submissions. The intent of the "My eDecs" account, and the limited system intelligence capabilities it provides, is to ease the data entry burden associated with filling out Form 3-177.