Having AEO status is all about building a partnership between a reliable trade partner on the one hand and Customs on the other hand. It is the first step towards modernized customs. AEO certified companies would in principle have direct and/or indirect benefits such as e.g. fewer physical and document-based controls, priority treatment of consignments if selected for control, easier admittance to customs simplifications, reduced theft and losses, fewer delayed shipments,…
The conditions and criteria for AEO authorization relevant to each category of business will apply to all businesses regardless their size. However, it is accepted that the standard of compliance will vary and be in proportion to the size and complexity of the business, type of goods handled etc. In October 2007 Belgian Customs indicated that they recommend companies to use the self assessment method in order to avoid a full audit of customs in your company. As of January 1, 2008 requests can be filed with Customs. The first AEO certification is to be expected as of March 2008.
C4T, in partnership with BDO and NPA Security Consulting, offers services to companies and organizations seeking to achieve AEO Certification. This results in a competent multi-disciplinary team where each partner is responsible for its own field of expertise:
- audit on accounting and logistical systems by BDO
- audit on security issues by NPA Security Consulting
- audit on customs issues by C4T
Our AEO team guides companies through the AEO certification process (application form, self assessment, annexes, audit,…) depending on the required certificate and the type of stakeholder. We have the experience to understand the needs in view of the self assessment concerned and the set up of procedures, where necessary. Furthermore we assist companies during the eventually audit of Customs in view of the certification process as well as during the preparation of this audit. Finally, it is our aim to follow your company’s business continuously as AEO is of course an ongoing process.
e-Learning modules on ‘Authorised Economic Operator’
E-learning modules on the ‘Authorised Economic Operator( (AEO) are available free of charge on the website of DG-Taxud (the European Commission’s Directorate General for Taxation and the Customs Union).
One is designed for the Customs administrations of the Member States and the other for European traders.
The training module for traders addresses the needs of several thousands of businesses throughout the EU. It will help companies to learn the relevant facts about the new AEO legislation, related benefits and how to become an AEO.