If you are a business owner or a logistics manager shipping goods out of the United States, you have likely encountered the acronyms AES, EEI, and ITN. While they might seem like just more “shipping alphabet soup,” failing to understand them can lead to your cargo being held at the port, or worse—hefty fines from U.S. Customs.
At RAM Shipping, we specialize in navigating the complexities of international logistics. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the Automated Export System (AES) and how to ensure your shipments remain compliant.
What is AES Filing and EEI?
To understand the process, we first need to define the two core components:
- EEI (Electronic Export Information): This is the actual data set that must be filed with the U.S. government. It contains details about the sender, the receiver, the value of the goods, and their classification. It replaced the old paper-based “Shipper’s Export Declaration” (SED).
- AES (Automated Export System): This is the electronic portal (operated through the Automated Commercial Environment, or ACE) used to submit the EEI.
Essentially, EEI is the “what,” and AES is the “how.”
When is AES Filing Mandatory?
Not every box leaving the U.S. requires a filing, but most commercial shipments do. You are legally required to file an EEI if any of the following apply:
- The “$2,500 Rule”: If a single commodity (classified by a unique Schedule B number) is valued at more than $2,500.
- Export Licenses: If the goods require an export license (regardless of value), such as specialized technology or dual-use items.
- Specific Destinations: Shipments to certain sanctioned or restricted countries.
- Used Vehicles: All self-propelled used vehicles (cars, trucks, tractors) require an AES filing, regardless of their value.
The Common Exception: The Low-Value Exemption
If your shipment is valued at $2,500 or less per Schedule B item and does not require a license, you may be exempt. In this case, you must cite the exemption code NOEEI 30.37(a) on your shipping documents.
Key Terms You Must Know
To file successfully, you need to have specific data points ready:
1. USPPI (U.S. Principal Party in Interest)
In most cases, this is the U.S. seller or the person/company receiving the primary benefit of the export. As the exporter, you are the USPPI.
2. Schedule B Number
While the rest of the world uses the HS (Harmonized System) Code, the U.S. uses the Schedule B system for exports. It is a 10-digit code used by the U.S. Census Bureau to track statistical data. Getting this number right is crucial for avoiding customs audits.
3. ITN (Internal Transaction Number)
Once your EEI is successfully submitted through the AES, the system generates an ITN. This is your proof of filing. It looks like this: AES X20260203123456.
Important: Your ITN must be provided to the carrier (shipping line or airline) and must appear on the Bill of Lading (BOL). Without it, the carrier will not load your cargo.
Deadlines: When Must You File?
The U.S. government requires data before the goods depart. The deadlines vary by the mode of transport:
- Vessel (Sea Freight): At least 24 hours before the cargo is loaded onto the ship at the U.S. port.
- Air Freight: At least 2 hours before the scheduled departure of the aircraft.
- Truck (to Mexico/Canada): At least 1 hour before the truck reaches the U.S. border.
Failing to meet these deadlines can result in “Late Filing” penalties, which start at $1,100 per day and can escalate quickly.
The Risk of Non-Compliance
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) takes export documentation seriously. Errors in AES filing—such as incorrect values, wrong Schedule B codes, or missed deadlines—can lead to:
- Monetary Fines: Civil penalties can reach $10,000+ per violation.
- Seizures: Customs has the authority to seize the cargo if they suspect intentional misreporting.
- Delays: Your cargo will be “rolled” to the next vessel, leading to missed delivery dates and additional storage fees (demurrage).
How RAM Shipping Simplifies Your Export Process
Filing through the government’s ACE portal can be a technical headache for many businesses. That’s where we come in.
As your freight forwarder, RAM Shipping acts as your authorized agent. When you ship with us, you don’t need to learn the ins and outs of the AESDirect system. You simply provide us with your commercial invoice and packing list, and our experts will:
- Verify your Schedule B classifications.
- File the EEI on your behalf accurately and on time.
- Provide you with the ITN for your records.
- Ensure all documentation is synced with the ocean or air carrier.
Are you ready to export from the USA without the paperwork stress? Contact RAM Shipping today for a quote and let us handle the compliance while you focus on growing your business.
