Across all borders

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The reorganization of the European customs code involves quite some effort for logistics companies to adapt their processes Everything is new in May – this year the German proverb applies in particular to logistics companies. Because, at the beginning of the month the new Union Customs Code (UCC) came into force. This brings with it a slew of new or amended regulations for customs processing of goods. After all, the new regulation is the most far-reaching reform of European customs law since 1993 and the adaptation of the law to the Treaty of Lisbon.

Advantages for companies

At first glance, the reform of the UCC provides some advantages for companies. For example, in future there will be a simplified customs declaration, which can primarily be carried out by the sender’s accounting. The handling of securities for customs permits will become more flexible. Depending on the evaluation of the company by the administration, these may be lower than previously and possibly even approach zero. The exchange of data has been significantly simplified, and the customs authorities of different countries will work with uniform procedures in the future. However, many of these simplifications will apply only for so-called authorised economic operators (AEO). But obtaining this status is subject to numerous conditions and requires a corresponding application and certification process. Further drawbacks are the reduction of the period of validity of binding tariff information (BTI) from six to three years, and the fact that registering prices from prior purchase transactions will no longer be possible. From now on, customs debt will be calculated based on the sales value achieved immediately before introduction into the EU. Previous value determinations will not be accepted.

Examining the own processes

For businesses, these changes can be more or less far-reaching, depending on their goods and customer structure. But it is certainly worth examining one’s own processes and procedures with regard to their suitability for the new UCC rules and, if necessary, to make adjustments. Above all, it is now much more important than before to apply for AEO status.

As a leading logistics provider, DHL has of course concerned itself with the new regulations for some time. Therefore, the company is happy to provide its partners and customers with support during their adjustment of processes. “We will not only undertake a quick scan of the current situation of the respective company, including a check of the existing certificates and licenses, but also provide specific recommendations for action and assistance within the context of customs consultancy services. For example when applying for AEO status“, explains Marc Bernitt, Global Head of Customs.