GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 16, 2026

Official Customs Control

An official customs control is the formal examination of goods, means of transport, and accompanying documents by customs officers at a border crossing or approved customs office.

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Last updated: 16 June 2026Published: 19 June 2025

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

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Passar Hub: Everything on the new Swiss customs system

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Definition & Explanation

An official customs control is the formal examination of goods, means of transport, and accompanying documents by customs officers at a border crossing or approved customs office. Officers verify correct tariff classification, customs valuation, payment of all applicable duties and taxes, and compliance with prohibitions, restrictions, and sanctions regimes. Depending on the risk assessment, controls range from targeted risk-based inspections—focused on flagged or high-risk consignments—to routine checks applied across general cargo flows. In practice, a customs control may take the form of a documentary check, a physical examination of the goods, or a combination of both. For freight forwarders and importers, any unexpected physical inspection means additional dwell time and cost, making a complete and consistent customs declaration the most effective preventive measure.

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⚡ Current 2026

Passar Hub: Everything on the new Swiss customs system

Passar replaces E-dec and NCTS. Passar 1.0 (export) is live, Passar 2.0 (import) starts from Q2 2026. Roadmap, ePortal registration, deadlines and FAQ — all on one page.

Passar 1.0Passar 2.0 → Q2 2026Passar 3.0 → Q2 2027

Passar Hub →Declar Info

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Official Customs Control

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Related Terms

ATC (Air Traffic Control)

Air cargo security control

control authority

NCTS control indicator

export control proviso / clause

Import Control System

Passar Hub: Everything on the new Swiss customs system

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