Blog: Authorised Economic Operator
Becoming registered as an AEO (Authorised Economic Operator) or Trusted Trader is rapidly becoming part of the post-Brexit landscape.
Published on: 5th November 2021
Since leaving the EU, the post-Brexit landscape has meant that businesses have had to look at other accredited marks to ensure their suppliers understand that they are a trusted organisation to trade with.
Becoming registered as an AEO (Authorised Economic Operator) or Trusted Trader is rapidly becoming part of the post-Brexit landscape.
AEO is an accreditation achieved by businesses that meet strict customs criteria by demonstrating quality, compliance and trustworthiness in the international supply chain.
AEO is awarded by HMRC and is recognised throughout the EU and internationally.
A review or Penetration Test of your IT systems is a requirement of the accreditation and we have specifically designed an IT health check (AEOTest) to meet the requirements of AEO accreditation.
Any company that operates within the international supply chain and carries out Customs-related activities in the EU is permitted to apply for the AEO accreditation.
Eligible companies can fall into any of the below criteria:
Our consultants perform the AEOTest IT health check and report on any issues and supply you information on the associated fixes.
Once any issues found are fixed, we will re-test these systems and, once remediated supply, a Pass Certificate to send to the HMRC which you can supply with your submission.
You can apply for AEO status for either Customs Simplifications (AEOC), Security and Safety (AEOS) or for both.
Whilst AEO accreditation is not a compulsory requirement, it does offer a number of benefits including access to streamlined and simplified customs procedures and, in certain cases, safety and security procedures.
Is it mandatory to become an AEO?
An economic operator is not forced to become an authorised economic operator: it is a personal choice that depends on the specific condition of each one.
How do we demonstrate that we are secure?
Once all ‘high’ and ‘critical’ identified issues are fixed, we will supply the Pass Certificate.
Can you help with fixes?
Yes, we can fully support with the fixes. However, we will supply a list of issues and associated fixes, without additional charge, to help you to do this without our support being required.
We are in the process of changing suppliers should I wait?
Your submission is time-bound, so you may not have the choice to wait. We can help you with finding a solution to fit your new needs and whilst looking to see how we could potentially reduce your costs. This can include IT support, internet connectivity, hardware procurement and telecoms.
Get in touch to discuss your requirements.
