The Electronic Export Manifest (EEM) requirement is now in effect and enforced by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) for all international cargo, including transshipments sailing from a domestic location as of December 1st, 2025.

Under EEM, all carriers and vessel agents must electronically submit a full export manifest, including Bill of Lading via the Automated Commercial Environment (ACE) 24 hours prior to vessel loading.

What is EEM?

The Electronic Export Manifest (EEM) is a CBP system that requires carriers to electronically submit export manifest data before departure. This process improves compliance, speeds up cargo clearance, and replaces traditional paper-based submissions.

To avoid shipment delays and ensure compliance, effective immediately:

• Submit your shipping instructions with complete information, including the AES details declared in the AES field, to secure the loading of your cargo.

• Use the designated field in our e-commerce platform specifically created for this purpose.

• If you have multiple AES numbers, they must be separated by a comma in the AES field.

• For export reference, PO, or other internal marks, please use the Marks / Export Reference field.

• Send all relevant export documentation (shipping instructions, bill of lading data including ITN, container details, etc.) as early as possible and no later than the documentation cutoffs set by each service.

To help ensure your cargo sails as planned, please submit all required documentation by the published deadlines. Missing these timelines may result in your shipment being moved to the next available sailing at the customer’s expense, as required by CBP regulations. For time-sensitive shipments, please note that loading can only proceed once the manifest is accepted by CBP, which may require adjustments to your sailing schedule.

We truly appreciate your partnership in making this process smooth and efficient. If you have any questions or need support, our team is ready and happy to assist you.

Great White Fleet