If you're planning to ship goods from the USA, an international shipping company like ours can help you quickly calculate your international shipping cost using the LCL freight calculator above. Select your destination country. It takes just a few minutes, and you won't need assistance to obtain a price quote.

Shipper's Export Declaration (SED) for International Shipping from the USA

Once your shipment is booked, there is an important legal step to take: submitting the export documentation. One of the key forms involved is the Shipper's Export Declaration (SED), which plays a crucial role in ensuring that your cargo can be legally exported from the United States.

What Is the Shipper's Export Declaration?

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) requires that nearly all cargo shipped internationally from the United States, whether for commercial purposes or personal use, must be declared through the Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) online portal. This declaration is known as the SED.

To keep shipments compliant, carriers strictly enforce what's called the "NO DOCS – NO LOAD" policy. In simple terms, if the required documents aren't submitted on time, including the SED and the associated Internal Transaction Number (ITN), your cargo won't be loaded onto the vessel.

The deadline? Documents must be filed at least 72 hours before the cargo's scheduled release. Missing that window can result in delays or penalties, and your shipment won't be allowed to depart.

Are There Exceptions to Filing an SED?

Yes, there are a few typical cases where filing an SED isn't required:

• If the total value of your shipment is under $2,500
• If you do not ship internationally, but move cargo between domestic U.S. locations, like from the mainland to Hawaii

For everyone else, the SED filing is mandatory for international shipping from the U.S. But don't worry, it's easier than it sounds.

How Do You File the SED?

You can take care of the SED filing during the booking process using our online freight calculator. When you're finalizing your quote, you'll see a few options:

• You can ask us to file the SED on your behalf. We'll submit it through ACE and generate the ITN, which will be included in your ocean freight bill of lading - no extra steps on your part.
• If your shipment is under $2,500 and you opt for this simplified method, you won't need to file the SED at all. In that case, your bill of lading will include this statement: "NOEEI SECT 30.37(a)", which confirms the exemption.

If you're unsure which option applies to your shipment, please send us an email with the details. Our team will review everything and guide you through it. That's part of what an experienced international cargo transportation company is designed to do. As an international shipping company, our role is to simplify these formalities, enabling even first-time shippers to navigate export requirements with confidence.

What Information Is Needed to File the SED?

If you'd like us to handle the SED on your behalf, you'll need to provide either:

• Your EIN (Employer Identification Number), or
• A copy of your foreign passport (photo page with your passport number clearly visible)

Note: ACE no longer accepts U.S. passports or Social Security Numbers. CBP made this change to protect personal data better.

Don't Have an EIN? Here's How to Get One

If you're a U.S. citizen and don't already have an Employer Identification Number (EIN), there's no need to worry. You can apply for one directly through the IRS website. It's quick, secure, and completely free. And don't worry. It doesn't obligate you to start a business or file additional taxes. This simple step to get the EIN ensures you're on track for affordable international shipping without unexpected legal or documentation delays.

Once you have obtained your EIN, you're all set to proceed with the SED and complete your shipment from the USA. It's just one more step in ensuring your cargo moves efficiently and in compliance with the law.