GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 18, 2026

paper fallback

Keeping operations moving when customs software, warehouse management systems, or EDI links go down – that is the purpose of a paper fallback.

Quick Answer

Last updated: 18 June 2026Published: 27 January 2026

Source: https://www.logistiklexikon.de/term/papierfallback

Category

Passar Hub: Everything on the new Swiss customs system

Reading time

1 min

Words

Mentioned in

–

Definition & Explanation

Keeping operations moving when customs software, warehouse management systems, or EDI links go down – that is the purpose of a paper fallback. It refers to a pre-defined contingency procedure in which physical documents (printed or handwritten freight orders, customs declarations, or delivery notes) substitute for digital records during a system outage. Freight forwarders and customs offices follow established emergency workflows to limit delays and minimise errors. Once digital systems are restored, paper documents are back-entered or archived. The paper fallback is the counterpart to a document-substitution case, where paper is permanently replaced by a recognised digital original.

Next steps

Tools that match this term

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

Related Terms

You might also be interested in these terms

fallback procedure

A fallback procedure comes into play the moment a primary IT system or standard process fails and regular electronic customs clear…

Learn more

document-substitution case

A document-substitution case arises in customs or transport procedures when a legally or contractually required paper document – s…

Learn more

Fallback process

A fallback process is triggered when the regular flow in a supply chain or logistics operation is disrupted or interrupted. This p…

Learn more

Backup Warehouse Management Plans

When a primary warehouse management system fails, logistics providers must switch to fallback procedures to maintain inventory acc…

Learn more

Customs system outage

Customs authorities and freight forwarders depend on stable IT infrastructure to submit and process declarations electronically – …

Learn more

customs system disruption message

As soon as an electronic customs system fails or is impaired, a customs system disruption message is triggered in the operational …

Learn more

⚡ 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

Logistics knowledge straight to your inbox

Weekly: Top news, industry facts and insights from the world of logistics – free.

paper fallback

Next steps

Related Terms

fallback procedure

document-substitution case

Fallback process

Backup Warehouse Management Plans

Customs system outage

customs system disruption message

Passar Hub: Everything on the new Swiss customs system

Logistics knowledge straight to your inbox

Community Questions & Answers