AEO Services
Please note that we are not the HMRC tax office; their contact number is 0300 200 3700.
Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) status is an internationally recognised quality mark awarded to businesses that demonstrate strong compliance, security and reliability in their customs operations throughout the international supply chain. It is common to many countries and whilst no longer part of the EU, is recognised as a key security measure when trading with the EU and other nations such as the US, China and other countries in the world.
AEO status confirms a business’s reputability and commitment to maintaining high standards in the management of cross-border goods. It signals to customs authorities and international trading partners that your processes are secure, well-managed and compliant with regulatory requirements.
Through mutual recognition agreements, AEO status is accepted in over 70 countries, helping to facilitate smoother international trade and strengthen your position in global markets. It can support faster clearance, reduce delays and build stronger relationships with supply chain stakeholders.
The Customs People offers a comprehensive range of AEO services designed to help businesses understand, prepare for, and achieve AEO status - unlocking the full range of benefits it brings to customs compliance, operational efficiency and cost management.
To enquire about help with AEO status for your business, get in touch by calling 0161 826 8926, or filling out an online enquiry form.
There are three types of AEO status, each offering distinct advantages depending on your business model and customs operations.
AEOC status is intended for businesses that are routinely involved in customs procedures and are seeking to streamline their operations while improving compliance. It focuses on customs simplifications that make routine import and export activities more efficient and cost-effective.
Given that the requirements to achieve AEOC accreditation from a customs perspective are what a business should be doing for compliance anyway, AEOC is in effect ‘compliance plus’ whereby you are not just compliant but demonstrably so.
In addition, whilst AEOC requires ensuring other business processes are secure, these too are processes which businesses should routinely be operating effectively - these include IT security, financial audit trails and effective stock management.
With AEOC status, your business may benefit from:
AEOS status is aimed at businesses that demonstrate strong security standards throughout their supply chain. It is particularly relevant to those involved in international logistics, freight forwarding or high-value or sensitive goods.
AEOS status can provide:
Businesses that meet the AEO criteria for both AEOC and AEOS can apply for full AEO status (AEOF). This provides the combined advantages of customs simplification and enhanced supply chain security, positioning your business as a reliable and compliant partner in international trade.
The Customs People specialises in helping businesses prepare for and apply for AEO status. With expert knowledge of customs procedures and the Union Customs Code, we can assess your eligibility, guide you through the requirements and support your AEO application from start to finish. Contact The Customs People today to speak with one of our experts about what AEO strategies will best fit your business.
We help businesses plan their applications for AEO status by providing expert guidance and independent assessments to determine readiness. Our support is designed to improve your chances of a successful application while identifying opportunities to streamline customs processes and reduce costs.
As part of our planning service, we carry out a detailed review of your operations against the AEO self-assessment criteria. This includes assessing your systems - such as accounting records for customs purposes and financial solvency - and identifying areas for improvement. We also highlight potential savings, such as enhancements to your current Duty and VAT structure.
All of our AEO specialists have been trained by the same experts who train HMRC officers, enabling a high level of technical accuracy and practical insight.
We offer more than just application assistance. Through our thorough investigation of your systems and procedures, we provide tailored recommendations to strengthen your position and help you meet the necessary standards for accreditation. This is particularly important, as unsuccessful applications carry a mandatory three-year wait before reapplying.
For strategic, informed support with AEO planning, contact The Customs People today.
Whether you are just starting to explore AEO status or are already partway through the application process, The Customs People provides expert, tailored advice at every stage. Our team will guide you through the different types of AEO accreditation - helping you determine which is most appropriate for your business structure, trading activity and long-term objectives.
Our advice goes beyond compliance. As we assess your readiness for AEO, we also take a strategic view of your customs operations, identifying where adjustments can be made to improve efficiency and unlock cost savings. This includes reviewing your existing VAT and duty processes to uncover potential reductions and recommending changes that not only align your business with AEO requirements but also enhance profitability and streamline day-to-day procedures such as record keeping and reporting to HMRC.
With extensive experience and in-depth knowledge of HMRC expectations, The Customs People offer a proactive, commercially focused service designed to position your business for success. Contact us today to discuss how our AEO advice can support your application and deliver measurable benefits across your operations.
The Customs People offers two package options to suit businesses at all stages of their AEO journey. Each package is built around the same high standards we apply across all our work, with flexible options to meet your operational needs and budget.
Our AEO certification packages begin with an initial consultation, offered on a fixed fee basis. This includes a one-day advisory session where we conduct a GAP analysis, covering the Self-Assessment Questionnaire (SAQ) requirements and a review of the completed analysis. There is no obligation to continue onto the following stages after the initial consultation. However, if you require further assistance following this stage, we offer two options based on your needs and budget, as outlined below.
| The process | Option 1 - Advisory | Option 2 - Full package |
|---|---|---|
| 1& 2: Initial onsite consultation & gap analysis | Yes | Yes |
| 3: Closing of gaps | Advisory session following GAP analysis. Providing steps and templates, and review | Full gap closure, incl. documenting AEO procedures. Help with implementation. |
| 4: Application, SAQ & supporting documents | Guidance to complete fully/correctly. | We complete the application and SAQ on your behalf. |
| 5: Liaison with HMRC | Guidance provided. Business liaises with HMRC unless specifically requested. Subject to further fee. | Attend and lead all validation visits. |
With a proven track record of success, we’ve helped clients across a range of sectors secure AEO accreditation - improving their customs processes, reducing risk scores and strengthening their international trade position.
Our team holds Level 3 BTEC Advanced Qualifications in Security Management Systems for the Supply Chain, providing a robust technical foundation for assessing your business against AEO standards. In addition, all of our security-focused consultants have been trained by the same specialist provider that delivers AEO audit training to HMRC staff, ensuring our advice reflects current audit expectations and customs compliance best practice.
As former HMRC Customs Officers, we understand how applications are reviewed and what HMRC is looking for. This insider knowledge allows us to pre-empt potential issues, apply HMRC’s approach to your business, and position your application to stand the best possible chance of success.
We are fully independent and act with your commercial interests at the forefront. There is no conflict of interest - our focus is on strengthening your business through expert guidance, detailed readiness assessments and clear, strategic recommendations.
With The Customs People, you benefit from a depth of customs legislation experience that few providers can match. From initial advice through to post-accreditation support, we offer a practical, proactive service built around your objectives.
Get in touch with us today to find out how we can help you secure AEO status and unlock the long-term advantages it brings. Get in touch by calling 0161 82 68 926, or filling out an online enquiry form and we will be in touch at your convenience.
