AES is the EU-wide standardized electronic export system for transmitting export declarations. It is used for security and customs control of goods exports from the customs territory of the European Union. In Germany, AES is implemented via the national IT system ATLAS-Ausfuhr.
The aim of the system is to completely digitize export processes, thereby replacing paper-based procedures and speeding up cross-border goods traffic. Economic operators such as exporters, freight forwarders, or customs agents are required to declare exports via AES as soon as certain thresholds are exceeded (e.g., a goods value exceeding €1,000 or a weight exceeding 1,000 kg) or if the goods are subject to authorization.
Communication takes place via defined data formats (e.g., XML messages) with specific coding, which are transmitted from the participant’s IT system (e.g., customs software or in-house development) to the customs system.
One advantage for companies is that customs clearance is more efficient, with reduced downtimes and a better flow of information. Feedback from customs, such as exit notes or verification instructions, is also provided digitally.