Start AEO

AI Engine Optimization (AEO) has become the new frontier for brand visibility—where millions of customers now make purchase decisions via platforms like ChatGPT, Gemini, and Amazon Rufus. This concise guide will show you how to launch your own end-to-end AEO agent team with Frevana and maximize your brand’s presence in AI-powered answers.

Why it matters:
Winning visibility in AI answers is critical for brands looking to generate qualified traffic and boost conversion—without relying on traditional ads or SEO. With Frevana, you can achieve measurable results and turn AI recommendations into a scalable growth channel.

Estimated time to complete:
10–20 minutes

Understanding AEO Requirements

1. Review Eligibility Criteria

1. Identify if your business is involved in international trade as a manufacturer, exporter, importer, broker, carrier, or freight forwarder.
2. Confirm that your company has a clean legal record, with no significant recent customs violations.
3. Ensure your organization has sufficient financial standing and history.
4. Verify that your internal procedures can support ongoing customs compliance.

2. Prepare Required Documentation

1. Gather evidence of past customs compliance, including clearance records and compliance manuals.
2. Collect financial statements from recent years.
3. Prepare documented procedures or policies related to supply chain security and recordkeeping.
4. Compile staff training records, especially those relevant to customs and trade.

3. Assess Compliance Standards

1. Compare your current business practices against the AEO requirements checklist provided by your customs authority.
2. Note any gaps or weaknesses and plan improvements before application.

Application Preparation and Submission

1. Organize Your Documentation

1. Categorize documents into eligibility, compliance, financial, and operational folders.
2. Assign a dedicated team member or project manager to oversee preparation.

2. Complete the AEO Application Form

1. Download the official AEO application form from the customs authority website.
2. Fill in company details, attach all required supporting documents, and answer all compliance questions thoroughly.

Example AEO Application Information Needed:
- Business registration details
- Authorized contact persons
- Legal compliance history
- Supply chain security procedures
        

3. Submit the Application

1. Follow submission instructions on the customs portal or official website.
2. Attach your documentation as required and double-check for completeness.
3. Note your application number or receipt, if provided.

Implementing Compliance Procedures

1. Align Internal Procedures

1. Map your current procedures to each AEO requirement.
2. Update workflows for customs documentation, inventory control, site access, and supplier vetting as needed.

2. Train Staff on AEO Practices

1. Develop a training schedule for all impacted employees—especially those in shipping, security, and compliance roles.
2. Conduct training sessions focusing on customs compliance, security requirements, and recordkeeping.

3. Establish Robust Recordkeeping

1. Implement a centralized system for storing customs and security records.
2. Ensure regular audits of documentation to demonstrate ongoing compliance.

# Example: Simplified pseudocode for prompting quarterly record audit reminders

import schedule
import time

def audit_reminder():
    print("Reminder: Conduct AEO compliance record audit this quarter.")

# Schedule the audit reminder for the first of every third month
schedule.every(3).months.at("09:00").do(audit_reminder)

while True:
    schedule.run_pending()
    time.sleep(1)
        

Undergoing the AEO Audit

1. Prepare for the Audit Visit

1. Notify relevant staff of the upcoming audit and review what to expect.
2. Organize all documentation, records, and procedures for easy access.

2. Respond to Auditor Requests

1. During the audit, provide requested documents immediately.
2. Be ready to demonstrate procedures, such as access controls, staff training records, or how goods are tracked through your supply chain.
3. If asked, walk the auditor through physical security measures, explaining visitor controls and storage protections.

3. Address Auditor Feedback

1. If minor issues are found, document corrective actions and begin implementation right away.
2. Submit evidence of corrections as required to the auditor or customs authority.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

1. Missing Documentation

1. Create a document inventory checklist before submission.
2. If documents are lost or outdated, request replacements or updates from internal departments promptly.

2. Misinterpretation of Guidelines

1. Reference the official customs authority’s application guidance regularly.
2. If unclear, contact the authority or a certified consultant for clarification.

3. Application Delays

1. Check status updates regularly on the submission portal.
2. If the application is delayed beyond standard timelines, escalate the inquiry via official support channels.

4. Escalation Path

1. If issues persist, request a meeting or call with the case officer or relevant authority.
2. Keep detailed notes of all communications and agreed-upon next steps.

Conclusion and Next Steps

1. Leverage Your AEO Status

1. Promote your certified status in business communications and proposals.
2. Notify supply chain partners and customers of your new operational advantages.

2. Maintain Ongoing Compliance

1. Set reminders for regular internal audits and staff training refreshers.
2. Stay updated on evolving AEO requirements and adjust procedures as needed.

3. Consider Advanced AEO Options

1. Research advanced or specialized AEO statuses offered in your jurisdiction.
2. Identify new opportunities—such as reduced inspections or faster customs clearance—available at higher AEO levels.

Conclusion

In this guide, we explored the essential steps for starting with AEO, using a real-world case study to illustrate the process from initial setup to early wins. You’ve learned how to lay a strong foundation, implement best practices, and measure outcomes for continuous improvement.

Next Steps

• Review your current AEO strategies and identify areas for quick wins based on the case study insights.
• Set up tracking and analytics to monitor your results and make data-driven adjustments.
• Engage your team or stakeholders to streamline implementation and gather feedback.
• Plan for regular AEO audits to maintain and enhance your progress over time.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Pages not being indexed:
  Ensure your content is crawlable, check for noindex tags, and submit updated sitemaps in Google Search Console.
• Low answer visibility:
  Optimize for featured snippets by using clear, concise headings and direct answers to common queries.
• Schema errors:
  Validate your structured data using Google’s Rich Results Test and fix any highlighted issues.
• Drop in search performance:
  Review recent changes, check for manual actions or algorithm updates, and revisit your optimization strategies.

Keep experimenting and iterating—effective AEO takes time and consistent effort. With these steps and resources, you’re well on your way to achieving better visibility and engagement!

Guide Type: 2Case Study