Question 1

What is AES filing?

Accepted Answer

AES (Automated Export System) filing is the process of electronically submitting Electronic Export Information (EEI) to US Customs and Border Protection before exporting goods. It is required for most commercial shipments valued over $2,500 and for all shipments requiring an export license.

Question 2

What is an EEI filing?

Accepted Answer

EEI (Electronic Export Information) is the data submitted via AES when exporting goods from the United States. A successfully accepted EEI submission results in an ITN (Internal Transaction Number) that serves as proof of filing and is required by the carrier before export.

Question 3

Who is required to file AES?

Accepted Answer

US Principal Parties in Interest (USPPIs) — typically the US exporter or seller — are required to file AES for most commercial exports valued over $2,500 per Schedule B commodity code, all exports requiring an export license, and all exports to embargoed destinations regardless of value.

Question 4

What happens if I don't file?

Accepted Answer

Failure to file AES or submitting inaccurate information can result in civil penalties up to $10,000 per violation and criminal penalties of up to $250,000 and/or imprisonment. Carriers may also refuse to load cargo without a valid ITN.

Question 5

What is an ITN number?

Accepted Answer

An ITN (Internal Transaction Number) is the confirmation number issued by the AES system after an EEI filing is accepted. It follows the format AES XYYYYMMDDXXXXXX and must be provided to the carrier before export as proof of compliance.

Question 6

How long does it take to receive an ITN?

Accepted Answer

Most AES filings receive an ITN within minutes of submission when data is accurate and complete. AES-Filing.com typically delivers ITNs same-day for standard filings, with complex or licensed shipments handled on priority timelines.

Question 7

What is AESDirect?

Accepted Answer

AESDirect is the free, web-based portal provided by the US Census Bureau for submitting EEI to the Automated Export System. AES-Filing.com's platform integrates directly with AESDirect to streamline filing for high-volume exporters, brokers, and forwarders.

Question 8

Do you handle vehicle and equipment exports?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Vehicles and heavy equipment exported to Canada or internationally require AES filing with specific Schedule B codes and additional data elements. We specialize in vehicle export compliance including proper valuation and documentation requirements.

Question 9

What about licensed or controlled exports?

Accepted Answer

Exports controlled under DDTC (ITAR), BIS (EAR), or SCA licenses require special AES filing with license type and number. AES-Filing.com handles ITAR, dual-use, and aerospace parts filings with full compliance documentation.

Question 10

Do you support ocean freight filings?

Accepted Answer

Ocean freight exports require EEI/AES filing prior to vessel departure, with specific timing requirements based on destination. AES-Filing.com provides pre-departure filing support for sea cargo exporters and forwarders.

Question 11

How do I create a platform account?

Accepted Answer

Contact AES-Filing.com to set up your platform account. Once provisioned, you can configure team members, role permissions, and API keys from your dashboard to begin submitting EEI filings directly.

Question 12

Is there an API for filing?

Accepted Answer

Yes. AES-Filing.com offers a RESTful API that allows freight forwarders, brokers, and logistics providers to submit EEI filings programmatically, retrieve ITNs, and receive real-time webhook notifications when filing status changes. Contact us for API access and documentation.

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