The AEO (Authorized Economic Operator) status was introduced on January 1, 2008, in all EU countries. Depending on the category obtained, it entitles the holder to use facilities related to customs controls (AEO C), security and safety (AEO S), or customs simplifications/security and safety (AEO F). It is awarded to companies whose organization, infrastructure, security of IT systems, storage areas, and means of transport ensure the safety of sites and goods, protecting them from unauthorized access. AEO status granted in one European Union member state is recognized throughout the Community.
– For our customers, high quality, time, safety, and additional solutions supporting their business activities play a significant role. When handling international shipments from outside the EU, the benefits provided by the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) status are a great support. Among the most important, I would point to the security of the transport process, simplifications in the application of customs regulations, and support for international business thanks to the facilities provided by European Community regulations – said Edwin Osiecki, Vice President of Marketing and Sales at DHL Express (Poland). – The AEO F status confirms our company’s high position as a business partner and, importantly, nearly a year after receiving it, it translates into concrete benefits for our customers and the company.
Customs declaration in the simplified procedure
DHL Express has obtained permission to use simplified procedures in terms of the “local clearance procedure” for both imports and exports. This allows for a significant acceleration of customs clearance time and translates into faster delivery times for the customer. The declaration for clearance is made by DHL electronically, and within a maximum of 30 minutes, the customs office issues a decision regarding the further handling of the shipment. 99% of shipments are released without customs inspection and are handed over to the courier for delivery to the customer. On behalf of its customers, DHL completes all formalities related to customs clearance. The advantage of using this option is also the possibility of making declarations after the customs office’s working hours. This is important due to the extended service hours provided by couriers. Clearances are also possible in emergency situations. DHL customers benefit from full consulting services from DHL Express.
“Deferred VAT” service
This service provides customers with the possibility of cashless settlement of VAT on the import of goods from countries outside the EU, in accordance with the Act on Deferred VAT. In this case, the settlement is made at a later date, directly with the Tax Office. Extending the VAT payment period is a support for customers in managing their financial flows. Customers are provided with full consulting and assistance in meeting the formalities required to use this service.
Facilities in the customs control process
AEO F entitles DHL Express to use facilities in customs control regarding security and safety, as well as simplifications provided for in customs regulations. These include, among others, prior notification and priority inspection of the shipment at the Customs Office or another location. The AEO F status also guarantees a smaller number of document and shipment inspections. In the case of high-risk goods, the company can benefit from an exemption from the obligation to provide security in certain customs procedures.
AEO F Certificate (“FULL” – customs simplifications/security and safety) means that DHL Express has met the requirements regarding compliance with customs regulations, financial solvency, appropriate organization and supervision of management systems for commercial, transport, financial, customs, and other records, enabling proper audit-based customs control. The granted certificate applies to all branches and organizational divisions of the company and the entire logistics process from the moment of collection to the delivery of shipments.