Census Issues AES Broadcast on Exporting Charity Goods to Japan
The Census Bureau has issued an Automated Export System (AES) broadcast regarding procedures for shipping charity goods to Japan in response to the recent earthquake and tsunami.
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According to Census, many U.S. residents and organizations are donating food, water, medicines, and other supplies to aid in the relief efforts. In order to facilitate the movements of these goods, Census is providing the following guidance that applies to any goods not requiring a license, such as food, clothing, and medicines.
4 Schedule B Numbers Can be Used for Humanitarian Exports
Census states that there are four Schedule B Chapter 98 numbers can be used when exporting humanitarian goods:
| Schedule B Number | Description | Unit of Measurement |
| 9802.10.0000 | Food products | X No Unit Required |
| 9802.20.0000 | Medicinal and pharmaceutical product | X No Unit Required |
| 9802.30.0000 | Wearing apparel (including footwear, headwear) | X No Unit Required |
| 9802.40.0000 | Donated articles, not elsewhere specified | X No Unit Required |
EEI Exemption Available for Low-Value Shipments that Don’t Require License
Any shipment valued over $2,500 per Schedule B number or that requires a license must be filed in AES (i.e., Electronic Export Information (EEI)). However, if the shipment is valued less than $2,500 per Schedule B Number and does not require a license, then the low value exemption (15 CFR 30.37(a)) can be used.
In this case, food, clothing, and medicines do not require a license.
Export Information Code “CH” is Reported for Donated Goods
According to Census, the Export Information Code to be reported is "CH" for shipments of goods donated to relief or charity. The value to be reported is the market value.
If that value is not known, estimate how much would be received if the goods were sold. The value should be consistent with the goods being exported, to avoid confusion and possible delays with U.S. Customs & Border Protection officers at the port of export.
Additional information from Census is available by calling 800-549-0595 or emailing askaes@census.gov or askregs@census.gov.
Census AES broadcast #2011016 available by emailing documents@brokerpower.com.