The Government is still committed to the transitional Brexit period ending on 31 December 2020 and businesses trading with the European Union need to make sure they are ready for major changes.
If you are applying for Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) status from 1 June 2020, you must submit the application through the EU Customs Trader Portal.
This will not change the way HMRC checks your application or visits your business before it approves your application.
You will need to ask HMRC for access to the portal (which can take up to 5 days). The information for the current C117 will be completed online and a completed C118 (Self-Assessment questionnaire) attached to the application.
About AEO status
AEO status is an internationally recognised quality mark that shows your business’s role in the international supply chain is secure and has customs control procedures that meet UK and EU standards.
Anyone involved in the international supply chain that carries out customs related activities in the UK or EU can apply for AEO status, regardless of the size of your business.
This includes:
- manufacturers
- exporters
- freight forwarders
- warehouse keepers
- customs agents
- carriers
- importers
- port operators
- secure freight parking operatives
- airline loaders
HMRC will carry out checks below to see if you meet the criteria for receiving the status. These checks will take place after you’ve applied and will be appropriate to the type and size of your business.
Approval for AEO status involves audit visits from HMRC. Before you apply make sure you’re ready for HMRC’s officers to attend your premises. They will call you shortly after your application has been accepted to arrange these visits.
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If you require any assistance in this matter, please contact your usual Beavis Morgan Client Partner.