Glossary > #ITN

ITN – Internal Transaction Number

Internal Transaction Number (ITN) is a key element in the world of international trade and export. It is a unique identification number generated by the Automated Export System (AES) of the United States. It serves as confirmation of the submission of Electronic Export Information (EEI) to AES and is necessary for legal export from the USA. ITN is considered a “passport” for your export shipments heading from the USA abroad.

Importance of ITN for Exporters

  1. Proof of Submission: ITN serves as essential proof that the exporter or their representative submitted the EEI, which is required according to Foreign Trade Regulations (FTR). This number must be stated on the first page of the waybill, air waybill and/or other commercial documents. The absence of ITN can lead to delays of the shipment at customs.
  2. Data Verification: ITN helps verify the correctness of data within the so-called “routed export transaction”. Exporters can use it to track each transaction and ensure that their contract carriers complete the documentation correctly.
  3. Requirement for Certain Documents: ITN must be stated on certain export documents. Without it, the shipment may be delayed by the carrier or shipping company.

What Does ITN Look Like?

ITN always begins with the letter “X” and contains the year, month and day when the EEI was received, followed by six random digits. For example, an ITN for a shipment received on March 8, 2019 might look like this: X20190308366903.

When is ITN Needed?

ITN is needed if any of the following conditions are met:

  • The value of goods in the shipment exceeds $2,500 USD according to the value measured for all goods under the same Schedule B number.
  • An export license is required under US law.
  • The shipment is destined for Iran or Syria (unless it meets the conditions for the “foreign library” exemption).
  • The shipment is not a humanitarian gift and is headed to Cuba or North Korea.

How to Obtain ITN?

Obtaining ITN is simplified by the fact that no additional steps need to be taken other than submitting the EEI to AES. Once the EEI is submitted, AES creates the ITN as a confirmation number, which appears on the submission overview screen in AESDirect.

Role of AES in the ITN Process

Automated Export System (AES) is the central place where export shipment data is electronically submitted, which also includes the generation of ITN. AES provides an alternative to paper submission of EEI and ensures that data is collected electronically and immediately edited, thereby minimizing submission errors.

Benefits of Using AES

  • Regulatory Compliance: AES with its sophisticated editing system ensures that export documentation complies with current US export reporting requirements.
  • Immediate Error Correction: AES provides immediate feedback if data is incorrect or missing, allowing for quick correction.
  • Cost Reduction: Costs for corrections are eliminated through data editing and costly delays in handling paper documents are avoided.

Internal Transaction Number is an essential element of the international trade process that ensures export shipments meet all US legal requirements. Its acquisition and proper use can protect exporters from fines and ensures smooth customs clearance of shipments. The use of AES and proper submission of EEI are key steps to obtaining ITN and successful export of goods.