The Automated Export System (AES) is the electronic way to file the Shipper's Export Declaration (SED) and the ocean manifest information directly to U.S. Customs. The Census Bureau's AERP ended on December 31, 1999. AERP was not Y2K compliant and was turned off as advertised. You will need to file export shipments electronically in AES or revert to filing paper SEDs.

AES is simply an electronic tool that supports the enforcement system that currently exists. AES's verifications, up-front edits, and selectivity allows us to focus our attention on high risk shipments and expedite other shipments. With the pre-departure filing of export shipments, inspectors are able to make informed decisions regarding examinations similar to the way imports are handled. Chances of low risk shipments being delayed are actually decreased.

The following four options are available to exporters for filing SED information:

• Option 1 provides for the filing of paper SEDs, pre-departure. The AES electronic filing options include
• Option 2 which requires full pre-departure transmission and is the basic way of reporting export shipments in AES.
• Option 3, implemented in September 1999, requires partial information reported pre-departure followed by complete information filed within five days of export. Option 3 does not require prior approval.
• Option 4 was implemented in March 1999 and is available to approved exporters only. It allows the approved exporter to send his shipment without pre-departure notification to AES. Full post-departure information must be reported within ten working days from the date of exportation.

CASAS International can offer the AES advantages to you. We are fully automated using THE METATRADE EXPORT SYSTEM. If you are a frequent exporter, CASAS will apply the letter of intent on your behalf in order to participate in option four. After approval, you will ensure export compliance with a confirmation number or Internal Transaction Number (ITN) as proof of successfully filing your export documentation.

If you need additional assistance or have any questions, please email or call us at services@casasinternational.com or (619) 661-6162.