GlossaryEN1 min readUpdated: Jun 18, 2026

WCO Targeting

Customs authorities around the world use WCO Targeting – a risk-selection framework developed by the World Customs Organization – to single out shipments, travelers, and commercial transactions that merit closer scrutiny from the broader flow of trade.

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Last updated: 18 June 2026Published: 27 January 2026

Source: https://www.wcoomd.org/en/topics/enforcement-and-compliance/activities-and-programmes/risk-management/targeting.aspx

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Definition & Explanation

Customs authorities around the world use WCO Targeting – a risk-selection framework developed by the World Customs Organization – to single out shipments, travelers, and commercial transactions that merit closer scrutiny from the broader flow of trade. Rather than applying universal checks, the approach channels limited inspection capacity toward statistically or intelligence-flagged cases. It relies on internationally coordinated targeting rules that weigh factors such as country of origin, commodity type, trade lane, declared value, and the importer's compliance history. In practice, many administrations integrate these rules into automated selectivity systems that screen advance declaration data and assign a risk indicator in real time. WCO Targeting should be distinguished from general risk management: it refers specifically to the WCO's methodology and tools that member administrations are encouraged to adopt.

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