GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 16, 2026

Approval Number for Customs

An approval number for customs is a unique alphanumeric identifier assigned by a customs authority to a specific authorization, approved status, or customs procedure.

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Last updated: 16 June 2026Published: 19 June 2025

Source: https://ec.europa.eu/taxation_customs/business/customs-procedures/customs-approval_en

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Passar Hub: Everything on the new Swiss customs system

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Definition & Explanation

An approval number for customs is a unique alphanumeric identifier assigned by a customs authority to a specific authorization, approved status, or customs procedure. It allows freight forwarders, shippers, and authorities to trace and reference the clearance or authorization status of a shipment or company at any point in the process. Unlike the MRN (Movement Reference Number), which is tied to a single customs entry, an approval number may be permanently assigned to a company or a recurring arrangement—such as authorization for a customs warehouse, Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) status, or a simplified declaration procedure. The number must appear in the customs declaration and on the relevant transport documents; without it, the shipment cannot be processed under the corresponding customs regime.

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Current 2026

Passar Hub: Everything on the new Swiss customs system

Passar 2.0: import pilot with pre-registration

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Passar Hub →Declar Info

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