If you're planning to ship goods from the USA, an experienced freight forwarder like ours can help you quickly calculate your international ocean freight costs 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 customized shipping quote.

EEI Filing (SED) for International Shipping from the USA

Once your shipment is booked, there is an essential legal step: submitting the required export documentation. One key form is the Electronic Export Information (EEI), formerly known as the Shipper's Export Declaration (SED), which is critical to ensuring your cargo can be legally cleared for departure from the United States.

What is the Electronic Export Information (EEI)?

What Is the Electronic Export Information (EEI)?

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) requires that nearly all cargo moving overseas from the United States, whether for commercial purposes or personal effects, must be declared through the Automated Export System (AES) via the ACE online portal. This mandatory digital filing is what most people still call the SED (Shipper's Export Declaration).

To keep shipments compliant, ocean carriers strictly enforce what's called the "NO DOCS – NO LOAD" policy. In simple terms, if the export records aren't submitted on time, including the EEI transmission 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 port storage fees or penalties, and your shipment won't be allowed to exit the country.

Are There Exceptions to AES Filing?

Yes, there are a few typical cases where submitting export data isn't required:

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

For everyone else, securing an ITN is mandatory for international shipping from the U.S. But don't worry, compliance is easier than it sounds.

How Do I Obtain an ITN?

You can handle the EEI filing during the booking process using our online freight calculator. When you're finalizing your sea freight quote, you'll see a few options:

You can ask us to file the export declaration on your behalf. We'll submit it through AES Direct and generate the ITN, which will be included in your Master 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 an EEI. In that case, your bill of lading will include this statement: "NOEEI SECT 30.37(a)", which confirms the low-value exemption.

If you're unsure which customs regulations apply to your shipment, please email us the details. Our team will review everything and guide you through the export clearance process. That's part of what an experienced NVOCC is designed to do. As an international shipping company, we simplify these logistics formalities, enabling even first-time shippers to navigate U.S. Department of Commerce requirements with confidence.

What Information Is Needed to File with Customs?

If you'd like us to handle the export filing 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: The Automated Commercial Environment no longer accepts U.S. passports or Social Security Numbers. CBP made this change to enhance data security.

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 seamless international shipping without unexpected customs delays.

Once you have obtained your EIN, you're all set to proceed with the EEI submission and complete your shipment from the USA. It's just one more step toward ensuring your cargo moves efficiently and remains fully compliant with all applicable laws.