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Data Collection
PIERS has access to import /export data due to the Freedom of Information Act along with U.S. Customs Regulations which authorize press organizations to copy certain shipping documents available to the public.
U.S. Import Products
Import information is obtained from vessel manifests and U.S. Customs Automated Manifest Systems (AMS) data tapes from all U.S. ports. Reporters throughout the country (including Alaska, Hawaii and Puerto Rico) collect import information from all U.S. ports.

PIERS information is verified by the PIERS quality control staff, whom audits our records every month against a list, supplied by U.S. Customs, of vessels arriving at U.S. ports. In the event of a discrepancy, PIERS requests the appropriate documentation from either U.S. Customs or the ship line. In addition, ship lines and importers that subscribe to PIERS verify their own shipments in our system and notify us of any discrepancies.
U.S. Export Products
Reporters throughout the country (including Alaska, Hawaii and Puerto Rico) gather export information from bills of lading at all U.S. ports. The ship lines are obliged by law to submit documentation for every item on board the vessel. The PIERS quality control staff verifies PIERS export information against a list of vessels, supplied by U.S. Customs, exiting U.S. ports. Ship lines and exporters that subscribe to PIERS verify their own shipments and notify us of any disagreements among the shipment records.
Global Imports
PIERS obtains Brazilian, Chilean, Colombian, Ecuadorian, Peruvian and Venezuelan import data by forming partnerships with companies that specialize in manifest collection. We enhance this data to meet our conventions through a rigorous quality control process that includes codification and standardization.
Global Exports
PIERS obtains export data for Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela through the formation of partnerships with companies that specialize in manifest collection. We enhance this data to meet our conventions through a rigorous quality control process that includes codification and standardization.
 
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