Reporting the correct unit of measure in the Automated Export System (AES) is important for producing quality data. According to the Statistical Classification of Domestic and Foreign Commodities Exported from the United States (Schedule B), the AES requires specific quantity descriptions. Keep in mind that some commodities require two quantities to report in the AES.

Let’s take a look at a couple of examples:

1. If you export a laptop with the Schedule B code 8471.30.0100, report the unit of quantity as Number (No).
2. If you export “knit or crocheted cotton blouses” with the Schedule B code 6106.10.0000, report both Quantity 1 and Quantity 2 (two units of quantity). The unit of measure for Quantity 1 is dozens (Doz) and the unit of measure for Quantity 2 is kilograms (kg). See diagram below:

If you use your invoice or packing list as a reference to report Electronic Export Information (EEI), the unit of measure in your documents may be different from what the Schedule B code requires. Be sure to report the unit of measure specified for your commodity in the Schedule B book.

A common mistake made by filers is reporting pounds (lb.) instead of kilograms (kg). AES requires metric weight and measurements for commodities. So, if your invoice shows the weight of your commodity in pounds, you must convert to kilograms.

To find the correct Schedule B code and required unit(s) of quantity, check out our easy to use search engine: https://uscensus.prod.3ceonline.com/. For classification assistance, call the Commodity Analysis Branch on 1-800-549-0595, option #2.