What Is an ITN Number and How to Get It (Step-by-Step Guide)

📌 Introduction

If you’re exporting goods from the United States, you’ve likely come across the term ITN number. Whether you’re shipping a vehicle to Canada or exporting commercial cargo overseas, understanding the ITN is critical to avoiding delays, penalties, and compliance issues.

In this guide, we’ll break down exactly what an ITN number is, when you need one, and how to get it step-by-step.

🚨 What Is an ITN Number?

An ITN (Internal Transaction Number) is a confirmation number issued by the U.S. government after successfully filing export information through the Automated Export System (AES).

👉 Think of it as:

• A proof of export filing

• A required clearance number for shipments leaving the U.S.

• A tracking ID for your export declaration

Without a valid ITN, your shipment cannot legally leave the United States in many cases.

📦 When Do You Need an ITN?

You are required to obtain an ITN if:

• Your shipment value exceeds $2,500 per commodity

• You are exporting a vehicle (most common case)

• The shipment requires an export license

• You are shipping internationally (including USA → Canada vehicle exports)

💡 For vehicle exports, an ITN is almost always required, regardless of value.

⚠️ What Happens If You Don’t File AES?

Failing to obtain an ITN can result in:

• Shipment delays or holds at the port

• Fines and penalties from U.S. Customs

• Rejected export at the border

• Additional storage or demurrage fees

👉 Bottom line: No ITN = No export clearance

🛠️ How to Get an ITN Number (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Gather Required Information

You’ll need:

• Shipper (exporter) details

• Consignee (receiver) information

• Description of goods

• Value of shipment

• Port of export

• Carrier information

• EIN Number for Passport Number for Foreign entities

Step 2: Submit AES Filing

You must file through the Automated Export System (AES).

This can be done:

• Directly (complex and time-consuming)

• Through a licensed filing service like AES-FILE.COM (recommended)

  
  

Step 3: Receive Your ITN

Once submitted and accepted:

• You’ll receive your ITN number instantly or within minutes

• Format looks like:

  
  

  👉 X20260322012345

• 
  

Step 4: Provide ITN to Carrier / Port

Your ITN must be:

• Submitted to the shipping line, carrier, or border officer

• Included before export departure

🚗 Special Case: Exporting a Car from the USA

If you’re exporting a vehicle:

• ITN is mandatory

• Must be filed at least 72 hours before export

• Required by U.S. Customs for vehicle clearance

👉 This is one of the most common use cases for AES filing.

💡 Why Use a Service Like AES-FILE?

Filing AES yourself can be complicated and risky if done incorrectly.

With AES-FILE, you get:

• ✅ Fast, same-day ITN processing

• ✅ Error-free filings

• ✅ Compliance with U.S. export laws

• ✅ Support for vehicle exports and cargo shipments

  
  

⏱️ How Long Does It Take to Get an ITN?

• Typically: 5–30 minutes after submission

• Delays can occur if:

  • Information is incorrect

  • Filing is incomplete

👉 Using a professional service ensures faster approval.

📊 Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Incorrect HS Code or Product Description

• Incorrect VIN Number or Title Number

• Wrong shipment value

• Missing consignee details

• Filing too late (especially for vehicles)

These mistakes can delay your shipment or cause rejection.

📞 Get Your ITN Fast

Need your ITN number quickly and without hassle?

👉 AES-FILE provides fast, reliable AES filing services for:

• Vehicle exports to Canada

• Ocean cargo shipments

• Air freight exports

File your AES online for Contact us today to get your ITN issued the same day.