A Shipper's Export Declaration (SED) must accompany most international shipments with a single commodity or harmonized description valued above US$2,500, or containing validated licensed materials, or destined for certain eastern European countries.

DHL recommends electronic self-filing for SED. To file an SED electronically, log onto the U.S. Government Automated Export System (AES) web site at www.aesdirect.gov. AES Direct is a free service sponsored by the U.S. Census Bureau and eliminates the need for paper SED reporting, thereby reducing the risk of shipping delays for incorrect or incomplete information as well as fulfilling the requirement of SED record-keeping requirement for exporters. All Shippers who electronically file SED data directly with the Census Bureau using AES must cite the AES transaction number on the Airway Bill and Commercial Invoice.

DHL will also electronically file SEDs on behalf of the shipper provided all required information appears on a hard copy SED, Shipper Letter of Instruction (SLI) Airway Bill and/or Commercial Invoice. Additional fees will apply for this service. All required data must be provided.

Where to get the form: Contact a printer/stationer that produces business forms for shipping or visit www.aesdirect.gov.

Shipper's Letter of Instruction

DHL Ports of Exports

For additional assistance, please contact your local Unishippers office.