AEO

Companies that meet the requirements of Dutch Customs* can apply for an AEO authorization. Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) status offers companies advantages in international trade. The extent to which a company is granted facilities for controls will depend on the type of authorization. There are two types of AEO authorisation:

• AEO Customs Simplifications authorisation (AEO-C)
• AEO Security and Safety authorisation (AEO-S)

The two authorizations can also be issued in combination.

The authorizations are valid throughout the European Union. Since the introduction of AEO authorisations, Dutch Customs recognize two goods flows: goods from certified companies and goods from non-certified companies. The facilities associated with AEO status include the following:

• fewer physical and document-based customs controls
• priority for controls
• the holder of an authorisation may ask for controls to be carried out at a specific place.

*These criteria are set out in the Union Customs Code.