Authorised Economic Operator (AEO)

On 31.12.2010 Böllhoff was granted a Customs Simplifications AEO certificate (AEOC). This certificate brings with it a number of benefits for Böllhoff, including:

• Reduced records for import and export declaration summaries
• Possibility of advance notification if a shipment is selected for inspection
• Fewer checks of shipments and paperwork
• Preferential handling of shipments if selected for inspection
• Choice of inspection site
• Easier access to certain simplified customs procedures
• Good relations with customs authorities

Ultimately, however, our customers also benefit from these simplifications, because faster customs clearance means faster delivery of goods to the place of destination.

The spread of globalisation and the changing international security situation prompted the World Customs Organisation (WCO) to establish a "Framework of Standards to Secure and Facilitate Global Trade" (SAFE) – a set of international framework conditions for modern and effective risk management within customs authorities.

Since 1 January 2008 companies which are based in the European Union and are involved in customs-related operations have been entitled to apply for Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) status. This status offers benefits in terms of security-related customs inspections and/or simplified customs procedures.

The objective is to secure the international supply chain – from the manufacturer of an item through to the end consumer. Negotiations are currently in progress with third-party countries (notably USA, China, Switzerland) with a view to achieving international recognition of the status.

Authorised Economic Operator status is valid in all member states and has no time limit. This status can be granted in the following variants:

• Customs Simplifications AEO certificate (AEOC)
• Security and Safety AEO certificate (AEOS)
• Combined Customs Simplifications/Security and Safety AEO certificate (AEOF)

Source: + www.zoll.de (status: April 2011)