News
ACB Gains Full AEO Status
07 May 2008
HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC), the UK's accreditation authority, awarded ACB the most comprehensive level of certification - Customs Simplification and Security & Safety (Type F) - following a detailed assessment by HMRC of ACB's systems to ensure that the company meets the extensive and rigorous criteria set by the European Community (EC) and implemented by all Member States in the EC.
The EC introduced the AEO programme in response to:
- the need to increase border control, with the aim to secure the international supply chain and modernise customs procedures within the EC,
- the introduction of Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT) in the USA, and
- the development of the SAFE Framework of standards in the World Customs Organisation (WCO).
As a recognised AEO, ACB will be able to benefit from being considered as a "secure" trader, and thus a reliable trading partner, as well as:
- A lower risk score used to determine the frequency of physical and documentary checks by customs.
- Fast-tracked consignments.
- Priority clearance should items be stopped for checking.
- Simplified pre-entry / pre-departure summary declarations, which will become compulsory in July 2009.
- Recognised status across the EC.
- An industry recognised "kite mark", allowing the potential for future reciprocal arrangements and mutual recognition with other trading partners such as the USA and those that adopt the WCO SAFE Framework.
Gaining this internationally recognised quality mark signifies that ACB has proven its compliance with all the necessary financial and Customs requirements, as well as demonstrating that its internal controls, staff training and procedures are efficient and compliant.