# Direct customs representation

*Last updated: 2026-06-26*

> Direct customs representation is the standard arrangement in international trade: a customs broker or freight forwarder lodges declarations openly in the name of the principal – the importer or exporter – who remains the legally responsible party for all obligations arising from the declaration.

Direct customs representation is the standard arrangement in international trade: a customs broker or freight forwarder lodges declarations openly in the name of the principal – the importer or exporter – who remains the legally responsible party for all obligations arising from the declaration. The representative acts with a mandate but does not assume the principal's liability, which distinguishes direct from indirect representation, where agent and principal are jointly liable. The broker must be able to demonstrate their authority to act if customs authorities request it. Under EU law, this form of representation is governed by Article 18 of the Union Customs Code.

**Source:** [https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/DE/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A32013R0952](https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/DE/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A32013R0952)

## Quick Facts

| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Term | Direct customs representation |
| Language | EN |
| Word count | 103 |
| Last updated | 2026-06-26 |
| Source | https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/DE/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A32013R0952 |

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