The Union Customs Code allows all economic operators involved in the international supply chain (manufacturers, exporters, importers, freight forwarders, customs agents, carriers, etc.) to apply for Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) status.
This status certifies the operator’s reliability in customs operations, setting it apart positively from other operators. There are two types of AEO authorisation: AEOC (Customs Simplifications) and AEOS (Security and Safety).
The two authorisations can be held at the same time, combining the benefits of both; together they are known as AEOF (Full).
To obtain AEO status, the operator must demonstrate that it meets the following criteria:
- compliance with customs and tax legislation and no serious criminal offences related to its economic activity
- an effective system for managing commercial and transport records
- proven financial solvency
- appropriate practical standards of competence or professional qualifications
- appropriate security and safety standards
AEO certification therefore shows that the company is reliable, efficient, compliant with international trade rules, financially sound and has not been subject to serious customs infringements.
The criteria are assessed taking into account the type of economic operator, its size and its role in the international supply chain.
AEO status gives operators benefits and facilitations such as fewer document and physical checks, the possibility of carrying out customs operations at their own premises, fewer post-clearance checks, and access to customs simplifications and special procedures, with resulting cost savings.
A company with AEO certification can also benefit from these facilitations when operating in other Member States.
Centro Servizi Doganali is AEO Full
Aut.ne IT AEOF 08 0034