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[an error occurred while processing this directive] Foreign Trade › AES › Getting Started › AES Filer
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AES Filer Certification

Understand the process and requirements of transmitting export information into AES.
See the most frequently asked questions about filer certification.


How to Apply

AES Filer Certification Application Process

  1. Decide whether you plan to file via AESDirect or one of its products.
  2. If you plan to use AESDirect, you must pass the AESDirect certification quiz.
  3. If you plan to file via another method, apply to AES filer certification through the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) web page.
  4. Receive support from your CBP client representative and Census client representative who will:
    • Contact you within 3 weeks from the time of application,
    • Discuss your implementation method and
    • Assist you during testing.
  5. Prove that your system is capable of both transmitting data to and receiving data from AES.
  6. Take the short test.
  7. Receive authorization to report EEI to the AES.


Apply Now

Apply to AES Filer Certification (via the Letter of Intent Form on the CBP website)




Frequently Asked Questions

   
1 What is AES Filer Certification?
  AES filer certification is the process that results in the testing and approval of a company or individual to report Electronic Export Information (EEI) in the AES. U.S. Principal Parties in Interest (USPPIs) and authorized agents must go through this process.
   
2 What methods may I use to transmit or interface with AES?
  o Create your own AES program
o Purchase AES-certified software
o Use an AES service center
o Use AESDirect or any of its enhancements
   
3 Is this where I register for the free Internet filing system, AESDirect?
  No. If you are attempting to sign up for the U.S. Census Bureau’s free Internet filing system, AESDirect, then you must go to AESDirect and follow the instructions under Registration Help.
   
4 What different filing options are available in AES?
 

Predeparture filing and postdeparture filing are the options for filing commodity data in AES.

  • Predeparture filing of items that are NOT on the U.S. Munitions List (non-USML items) or licensable are required to be reported and accepted in AES prior to exportation, based on the filling requirements in the Foreign Trade Regulations:
    • Vessel shipments must be reported 24 hours prior to loading cargo on the vessel at the port.
    • Air shipments must be reported 2 hours prior to the scheduled departure of the flight
    • Truck shipments must br reported 1 hour prior to the arrival of the truck to the U.S. border
    • Rail shipments must be reported 2 hours prior to the arrival of the train the U.S. border
    • Mail and other types of shipments must be repoeted 2 hours prior to exportation
  • Predeparture filing of U.S. Munitions List (USML) items are subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). The time frames are as follows:
    • Vessel and rail shipments are required to be reported 24 hours prior to exportation
    • Air and truck shipments are required to be reported 8 hours prior to exportation

Postdeparture filing allows approved USPPIs to report EEI 10 calendar days after the date of export.

Vessel Transportation Module allows vessel carriers to transmit transportation information into AES.
   

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Source: U.S. Census Bureau | Foreign Trade | ftdwebmaster@census.gov |  Last Revised: April 14, 2015