AEO Audit

It is important to carry out an annual internal AEO audit to verify that all the requirements of the Authorised Economic Operator certificate continue to be met.

The added value of our AEO audit

An AEO (Authorised Economic Operator) audit, as well as being a customs audit, offers the following added value:

  • It facilitates compliance with AEO requirements and, where applicable, an AEO re-assessment. By auditing the level of compliance with AEO requirements, we ensure you remain up to date. With the audit, you will be prepared for AEO compliance and an AEO re-assessment by Customs.
  • Continuous improvement. Through the audit report, which highlights irregularities (non-conformities), observations and opportunities for improvement, you will identify the areas to work on and improve to ensure compliance with AEO requirements and Trust & Check requirements.
  • Identifying opportunities and areas for improvement. During the internal AEO audit, we will identify AEO-related tools that can generate business for you, such as applying for a Customs Warehouse or Factory Clearance. We also identify strengths, opportunities for improvement, threats and weaknesses.
  • Sell more and earn more. You will identify tools that can help your clients, such as opening up new markets. Thanks to the internal AEO audit, you will build customer loyalty by providing them with greater value.
  • AEO audit integrated into your ISO certification. As experts in AEO and ISO consultancy, we know how to conduct a useful internal AEO audit. We integrate the requirements of the ISO certificate with those of the Authorised Economic Operator.

Why choose us for your internal AEO audit?

The key factors to consider when choosing EmasConsultors to carry out your internal AEO audit are:

  • Auditors with AEO experience. Our AEO auditors have a track record of over 50 successful cases in the implementation and processing of Authorised Economic Operator status. We ensure the success of your internal AEO audit.
  • Save time. We carry out the audit. You can focus on what helps you generate revenue. There is no need for you to spend time training as an internal auditor. Our AEO auditors plan and execute the internal AEO audit.
  • Useful for management. The internal AEO auditor produces a report that serves as a tool to aid management’s decision-making.
  • Integrate strategy, marketing and other ISO certificates. In our AEO internal audits, we believe the AEO audit is an excellent tool. The Authorised Economic Operator audit supports continuous improvement through strategy, the Business Plan and ISO certificates (such as ISO 9001, ISO 27001 and ISO 28001). Guaranteed success. We have extensive experience with all types of AEO. Ask us for a quote tailored to your needs, with no obligation.

AEO Consultancy Services

We highlight the following AEO consultancy services:
 
  • AEO Certificate. AEO consultancy to help you obtain Authorised Economic Operator certification from Customs for customs simplifications and/or security.
  • AEO Reassessment. We assist you with the reassessment process during the AEO audit.
  • AEO Outsourcing. We help you keep up to date with Authorised Economic Operator requirements, meet Customs requirements and comply with Trust & Check requirements.
  • AEO Training, tailored to your needs to ensure all staff are fully aware of the requirements. Contact us for a quote for AEO consultancy tailored to your needs. We have over 100 success stories to our name.
 

AEO audit requirements

The audit will verify compliance with the requirements for an Authorised Economic Operator:
Record of compliance with customs requirements.
To achieve AEO compliance, it is essential to ensure that any potential irregularities relating to customs requirements are correctly identified and handled as customs irregularities, in order to meet the audit requirements.

With regard to the “Commercial and Logistics Records Management System”, the following shall be taken into account:

  • a) An accounting system consistent with accounting principles and facilitating customs control:
  • b) Access to customs and transport records.
  • c) A logistics system that distinguishes between Community and non-Community goods.
  • d) An appropriate administrative structure.
  • e) Use of licences and authorisations, such as those for computer applications.
  • f) Archiving and security of documentation.
  • g) Training of employees on non-compliance issues.
  • h) Security of computer systems.
To complete the entire OEA system, it must ensure that its financial soundness is demonstrated through corporation tax, economic indicators or business plans.

It takes into account:

  • a) Building security.
  • b) Access control.
  • c) Goods security.
  • d) Management of licences subject to restrictions and prohibitions.
  • e) Identification of business partners.
  • f) Procurement policy.
  • g) Awareness-raising programmes, such as regular AEO courses for all relevant staff.

FAQs: AEO Audit

What is Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) certification?
This is an international accreditation awarded by the customs authority to companies that demonstrate secure processes and regulatory compliance. By obtaining Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) certification, your company becomes a trusted partner in the global supply chain.
AEO Customs status offers competitive advantages such as reduced physical and documentary checks, priority clearance of goods and more efficient communication with the authorities.

 

To obtain AEO certification, a company must pass a thorough audit that assesses its financial soundness, its track record of tax compliance, and its physical security and logistics standards.

AEO certification does not have a fixed expiry date, but it is subject to ongoing monitoring. The authorities carry out periodic reassessments to ensure that the standards required at the time of initial certification are maintained.

Yes, thanks to Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRAs), holding an AEO certificate means that the benefits you enjoy in your own country are recognised by the customs authorities of other key nations.