Understanding the Automated Export System (AES)
The Automated Export System (AES) streamlines the export process, saving time and minimizing costly delays. Operating through the Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), AES enables U.S. businesses to file shipment data electronically and correct errors instantly. Because the information is shared digitally, it is accessible to multiple government agencies and every U.S. port across all modes of transportation.
The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) introduced the AES in 1995 to replace the old, paper-based method of processing U.S. exports. AES is a joint effort involving CBP, the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Foreign Trade Division and Bureau of Industry and Security, and the Department of State’s Directorate of Defense Trade Controls.
How AES Works
Once a company has secured a carrier and is ready to export, the company (or authorized agent) must file with the CBP to verify the shipment meets U.S. requirements. The AES streamlines this process with automatic electronic processing. This system immediately checks against U.S. government filing requirements and instantly notifies the exporting company of any corrections that need to be made. Catching errors early helps exporters stay compliant, speeds up license approvals, and reduces costly delays. The carrier must submit the final export manifest through AES within 10 days of the shipment’s departure, a timeline similar to the 10-day requirement for U.S. import entries. Because AES integrates with other digital systems, it generates more accurate reporting and continuous improvements in trade processing.
AES filing is mandatory when:
• The value of the exported commodity exceeds $2,500
• A shipment requires an export license
• The item falls under International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR)
• The product is in the “600 series” of the Export Control Classification Number (ECCN), requires a Strategic Trade Authorization (STA) license exception, or is destined for Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Sudan, or Syria
Accurate filing requires the correct Schedule B code, a 10-digit number based on the World Customs Organization’s Harmonized System (HS). The HS is used by over 200 countries to classify goods consistently for import and export tracking. Here’s how the coding works:
• First 2 digits: chapter
• Next 2 digits: heading
• Next 2 digits: subheading (these six digits are internationally recognized)
• Digits 7–8: further specify the product
• Digits 9–10: statistical suffixes used by the U.S.
A helpful guide on classifying a product can be found on the International Trade Administration’s website under Export Education, Product Classification (Schedule B and HS codes).
Accessing AES
AES is designed to be used by businesses of any size. Its high-level export statistics can even help companies evaluate potential new markets. To use AES data, a company must submit a Letter of Intent to the Census Bureau. They will then be assigned CBP and Census Client Representatives to assist with development, testing, and setup. Companies can work with an approved software vendor, Value Added Network, port authority, or service center to build an AES interface, or it can be accessed through the Census Bureau’s free online platform, AESDirect.
For more information, the International Trade Administration provides a video series on AES and Electronic Export Information (EEI). The Census Bureau’s website includes an AESDirect user guide, as well as email contacts for general AES questions (askaes@census.gov) and filing-requirement questions (emd.askregs@census.gov).
If you are interested in obtaining one-on-one market & data intelligence, contact the Rural Export Center or your local Trade Specialist today!