GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 23, 2026

Customs Compliance Check

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Last updated: 23 June 2026Published: 19 June 2025

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

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Logistics Concept

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1 min

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116

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Definition & Explanation

A customs compliance check is the systematic examination of goods, documents, and procedures carried out by customs authorities or authorised bodies to verify adherence to customs regulations, trade laws, prohibitions, and sanctions regimes. Checks may be conducted physically – at border crossings, bonded warehouses, or business premises – or as post-clearance audits after goods have been released. Freight forwarders and importers are required to keep all relevant records readily available; incomplete or inaccurate declarations can result in warnings, fines, or seizure of goods. Unlike a logistics compliance audit, which a company initiates itself, this examination is authority-driven. Operators with AEO status generally face fewer routine checks, though those that do occur tend to be more targeted.

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Calculate customs valueWork out import duties and customs valueOpen Find HS codeDetermine the tariff number for customsOpen Compare IncotermsClarify duties, cost and riskOpen Calculate transit timeEstimate duration per transport modeOpen

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Customs Compliance Check

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