How to Set Up an AES Account for Export Compliance
Article Summary
AES is an electronic platform used by U.S. exporters to file Electronic Export Information (EEI) and comply with federal export regulations.
U.S. Principal Parties in Interest (USPPI) and authorized agents, such as freight forwarders or customs brokers, need an AES account to file EEI.
A CIN is a unique identifier issued by the U.S. Census Bureau that companies need to register and access the AES platform.
The administrator manages user access, assigns roles, and ensures compliance with filing requirements for the company’s AES account.
Exporters must provide shipment details, ECCNs, Schedule B or HTS codes, and licensing information for each export.
An AES account ensures compliance with U.S. export laws, facilitates accurate EEI filings, and reduces the risk of fines or shipment delays.
Exporting goods from the United States requires strict compliance with federal regulations to ensure lawful trade and proper reporting. One of the most important tools for exporters is the Automated Export System (AES), the electronic platform through which the U.S. Census Bureau collects Electronic Export Information (EEI) for shipments.
An AES account enables U.S. exporters, freight forwarders, and other authorized agents to submit EEI electronically, track export filings, and comply with legal obligations under the Foreign Trade Regulations (FTR). Properly setting up an AES account is the first step in ensuring accurate, timely filings and minimizing compliance risks.
Key Details About Setting Up an AES Account
1. Determine Eligibility
AES accounts are available to:
- U.S. Principal Parties in Interest (USPPI), typically the exporter or manufacturer in the United States.
- Authorized agents, such as freight forwarders, logistics providers, or customs brokers, who file EEI on behalf of a USPPI.
Before registering, determine whether you will be filing EEI as a USPPI or through an authorized agent. This distinction affects how the account is set up and managed.
2. Obtain a Company Identification Number (CIN)
The first step in establishing an AES account is obtaining a B'Company Identification Number (CIN)' from the U.S. Census Bureau. This unique number identifies your organization in the AES system. To request a CIN:
- Visit the Census Bureau’s AESDirect LINK website.
- Complete the Company Identification Number request form, providing details such as your company name, address, contact information, and Employer Identification Number (EIN).
- Submit the request electronically.
Once approved, your CIN serves as the basis for creating and managing your AES account.
3. Designate an AES Account Administrator
Every AES account must have at least one B'account administrator'. This person is responsible for:
- Managing user access
- Assigning roles and permissions to other employees
- Ensuring secure login credentials and compliance with filing requirements
Choosing a knowledgeable compliance professional or logistics manager as the administrator is crucial, as they will oversee the accuracy of all EEI submissions.
4. Create User Accounts and Manage Access
After the administrator account is active, additional users can be added. Each user receives a unique login ID and password, allowing them to:
- Submit EEI filings electronically
- Upload supporting documentation
- Track the status of pending submissions
Proper management of user accounts ensures that only authorized personnel submit EEI, maintaining compliance and reducing the risk of errors.
5. Start Filing EEI and Maintain Compliance
Once the AES account is set up, the company can begin filing EEI for export shipments. The system provides guidance to validate filings and generates an Internal Transaction Number (ITN) as proof of submission.
It’s important to maintain accurate records, including shipment details, ECCNs (Export Control Classification Numbers), Schedule B or HTS codes, and licensing information. Records must be retained for five years to comply with federal requirements.
Regular internal audits and training help ensure ongoing compliance and reduce the risk of fines, penalties, or shipment delays.
Conclusion
Setting up an AES account is a critical step for U.S. exporters seeking to comply with federal export regulations. By obtaining a Company Identification Number, designating an account administrator, managing user access, and submitting accurate EEI filings, companies can meet legal obligations and facilitate smooth international trade.
An AES account not only supports regulatory compliance but also provides visibility into shipments, faster processing, and a foundation for efficient export operations. Properly establishing and maintaining the account ensures that exporters can navigate the complexities of U.S. export reporting confidently and securely.
Key Points
What is the Automated Export System (AES), and why is it important?
- Definition:
- AES is an electronic platform managed by the U.S. Census Bureau for filing Electronic Export Information (EEI).
- It ensures compliance with the Foreign Trade Regulations (FTR) and supports lawful trade.
- Purpose:
- AES collects export data electronically, replacing paper filings, and provides real-time validation to reduce errors.
- It is required for shipments valued over $2,500 or those requiring export licenses.
Who needs to set up an AES account?
- Eligibility:
- U.S. Principal Parties in Interest (USPPI): Typically the exporter or manufacturer in the U.S.
- Authorized Agents: Freight forwarders, logistics providers, or customs brokers filing EEI on behalf of a USPPI.
- Requirement:
- Without an AES account, exporters cannot file EEI, making it impossible to comply with U.S. export regulations.
What is a Company Identification Number (CIN), and how do you obtain one?
- Definition:
- A CIN is a unique identifier issued by the U.S. Census Bureau that companies need to register and access AES.
- Steps to Obtain a CIN:
- Visit the Census Bureau’s AESDirect website.
- Complete the CIN request form with details such as:
- Company name and address.
- Contact information.
- Employer Identification Number (EIN).
- Submit the form electronically.
- Approval:
- Once approved, the CIN is used to create and manage the AES account.
What is the role of an AES account administrator?
- Responsibilities:
- Manage user access and assign roles within the AES account.
- Ensure secure login credentials and compliance with filing requirements.
- Oversee the accuracy of all EEI submissions.
- Best Practices:
- Choose a knowledgeable compliance professional or logistics manager as the administrator to maintain regulatory integrity.
What information is required to file EEI in AES?
- Key Data Points:
- Shipment details, including value, destination, and carrier.
- Export Control Classification Numbers (ECCNs) for controlled items.
- Schedule B or HTS codes for commodity classification.
- Licensing information, if applicable.
- Proof of Filing:
- AES generates an Internal Transaction Number (ITN) as proof of submission, which must be provided to the carrier.
Why is setting up an AES account critical for export compliance?
- Compliance:
- Filing EEI through AES ensures adherence to U.S. export laws and avoids penalties.
- Efficiency:
- AES streamlines the filing process, reduces errors, and provides real-time validation of export data.
- Recordkeeping:
- Exporters must retain records of EEI filings, including ITNs, for five years to comply with federal regulations.
- Risk Reduction:
- Proper setup and management of an AES account minimize the risk of fines, shipment delays, and compliance violations.
