Your Guide to AES Resources

I've written a lot about the Automated Export System (AES) lately. Since AES has been refactored into the Automated Commercial Environment (ACE), I've written so many blog posts about it that it's hard to remember what I wrote about and when! So today I'm going to take a minute to organize the AES resources into one place where both you and I can come looking for information on AES.

AES White Paper

First, we have a white paper called Filing Your Export Shipments Through the Automated Export System (AES). It covers what AES is, how to get an account with ACE, and when and how to file. It also defines every data element required by AES. It's a very useful resource for both the seasoned AES filer and the newbie.

Important AES Videos

Next, I want to remind you about two videos that are available. The first video, called Data Requirements for an AESDirect Filing, shows you what specific pieces of information are required for an AESDirect filing, and it shows you where to enter that data in Shipping Solutions.

The second video, called How to File through AESDirect via the ACE Portal, shows you step-by-step how to file with AESDirect using Shipping Solutions, from how to log in to how to resolve errors.

Helpful Resources for all AESDirect Users

Below is a summary of six other blog posts related to AES that you might want to keep at your finger tips as a quick reference. I know I do!

1. Reports - Even if your forwarder files your Electronic Export Information (EEI) for you, you can now run reports in ACE so you can make sure they are doing it and doing it right. The reports are also helpful if you file yourself. Find out how with this blog post: Discover AESDirect Reports on ACE.

2. Statements - We all tend to click "I agree" on a new software program without ever reading what we've agreed to because if you want to use the program, you have to agree! But the AESDirect "I agree" screen actually has some good, basic information such as when you have to file and a link to the Foreign Trade Regulations. Since you can never see them again once you agree, I've reprinted them in the blog post, Automated Export System (AES) Certification Statements.

3. Emails - The Census Bureau, which owns the AESDirect system, sends out a lot of emails. This blog post, AESDirect Tips Direct from Census, summarizes some of their messages, such as what their downtime policy is and how you might get a rejected status even after an ITN has been issued.

4. Data Elements - The blog post, A Closer Look at Electronic Export Information (EEI), defines some of the more confusing data elements that are required for an AESDirect filing.

5. License Codes - All exporters have to include either a license or excemption code on all AES filings. The blog post, Export License Number or Exemption Code Required for All AESDirect Filings, includes a chart of license types, their codes, a description, and their licensing agency.

6. Puerto Rico - While the blog post, Is Your Shipment to Puerto Rico an Export?, is not just about AESDirect, it does include helpful information on the AES data requirements when shipping to Puerto Rico.

Who to Call for Help

If the white paper, videos and blog posts don't answer your questions, here are some other helpful resources:

• If you are a Shipping Solutions user, give us a call at (651) 905-1727 with any questions you have about filing with AESDirect using Shipping Solutions.
• For questions about your ACE account, call the ACE Account Service Desk at (866) 530-4172, option 1.
• General questions about EEI filings can be directed to the U.S. Census Bureau's Data Collection Branch at (800) 549-0595, option 1.