Updated: 15th October 2025

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Introduction

The Automated Export System (AES) is Ireland’s national system for processing export declarations and exit summary declarations for goods moving to countries outside the European Union (EU).

AES replaces the Automated Entry Processing (AEP) and eManifest systems, simplifying exports, improving compliance, and introducing a new process flow for confirming the exit of goods from the EU. This guide provides a complete overview of AES, its requirements, and exemptions.

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What is the Automated Export System (AES)?

The AES is a digital export declaration system designed to:

• Facilitate exports from Ireland to non-EU countries
• Ensure compliance with the Union Customs Code (UCC)
• Streamline reporting and reduce errors in export declarations

AES allows traders to submit export declarations up to 30 days in advance of goods leaving Ireland and introduces new arrival and exit notifications for EU export compliance.

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Key Dates for AES Implementation

• Go-live date: 21 March 2023
• Migration window: 21 March – 22 May 2023 (trade moves from AEP/eManifest to AES)
• Deadline: From 22 May 2023, declarations cannot be lodged in AEP or eManifest

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Impact on Trade

AES introduces significant changes to exporting from Ireland:

1. New Data Elements: Export declarations now require additional data as specified under the UCC.
2. Early Declaration: Export declarations can be lodged up to 30 days before presentation of goods.
3. New Messages:
   • ‘Arrival at Exit’ (C2): Submitted at the office of exit
   • ‘Exit Notification’ (A3): Lodged after goods leave the EU
4. Verification Tools:
   • Export Release Verification Service (ERVS) allows carriers to check export status
   • Pre-Boarding Notification (PBN) assists ferry operators in fulfilling exit message requirements

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Consignments of Low Value

Certain shipments are exempt from export declarations under AES:

• Commercial goods valued under €1,000 and weighing less than 1,000kg
• Postal or express consignments valued under €1,000, if required data is available to Revenue

Important: Goods subject to prohibitions or restrictions or returned for duty refund still require a declaration.

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Benefits of the AES

• Efficiency: Reduced administrative burden for exporters
• Compliance: Ensures adherence to Union Customs Code (UCC) requirements
• Transparency: Provides real-time updates on the status of goods exiting the EU
• Integration: Works seamlessly with pre-existing national systems like PBN and NIMS

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How to Comply with AES

Exporters must:

1. Submit export declarations through AES
2. Include all mandatory UCC data elements
3. Lodge arrival and exit notifications where applicable
4. Ensure goods are properly documented for low-value exemptions
5. Maintain accurate records for auditing and compliance purposes

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Conclusion

The Automated Export System (AES) modernises Ireland’s export process by replacing AEP and eManifest systems, introducing new data requirements, and streamlining the exit confirmation of goods from the EU.

Exemptions exist for low-value commercial goods, postal, and express consignments, but compliance with AES is mandatory for all other exports. By understanding the AES process and preparing accurate export declarations, exporters can ensure efficiency, compliance, and a smooth customs clearance process.

Stay informed about AES updates and work with your customs broker to ensure compliance and optimise your export operations.