Authorized Economic Operators
Trusted-trader programme granting simplified procedures, priority treatment and reduced inspection to compliant operators.
- Who it is for
- Established traders with a compliance record
- Channel
- Counter
- Processing time
- Assessment within 90 days
About this service
The Authorized Economic Operator programme recognises businesses with a demonstrated record of compliance and sound internal controls. Accredited operators receive priority processing, fewer physical inspections, deferred payment arrangements and a named account manager.
Accreditation follows a documented assessment of trading history, record keeping, financial solvency and supply-chain security. Status is reviewed periodically and can be suspended where the criteria are no longer met.
Who is eligible
- Three years of compliant trading history
- No serious customs offence in the review period
- Documented internal controls over customs records
- Demonstrable financial solvency
Conditions to meet
- A self-assessment questionnaire completed in full
- Access for an on-site validation visit
- A named compliance contact within the business
Documents to provide
Bring originals where a certified copy is to be issued.
- AEO application and self-assessment questionnaire
- Audited financial statements for three years
- Internal control and record-keeping procedures
- Supply-chain security assessment
Step-by-step procedures
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Becoming an Authorized Economic Operator
The assessment path from self-assessment questionnaire to accreditation and periodic review.
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