New federal export requirements go into effect

New International shipping requirements for exporters became effective today, according to the US Postal Service.

The US Census Bureau now requires filing of export information through its automated export system or its AESDirect system for all international shipments. A shipper's export declaration was previously required.

The electronic filing requirement applies when any type of goods to be shipped is valued at more than $2,500 or requires an export license under US law.

The electronic export information must be filed through the Census Bureau by the mailer or an authorized agent. The Postal Service never acts as an authorized agent, it said.

More information on electronic filing is available at the Census Bureau's Web site www.census.gov/foreign-trade/aes, or by calling (800) 549-0595.