Customs Intermediaries Standard
As part of the important role played by customs intermediaries (like CustomsLink), HMRC have published a new Customs Intermediaries Standard (PAS 41201:2026) developed by the BSI to reinforce the quality and consistency of services provided the industry. This in turn will help traders make better decisions when selecting who they decide who should handle their import/export declaration requirements.
For customs intermediaries, the new standard will revolve around good practice. This includes a strong focus on transparency, ongoing professional development and due diligence.
For traders, the standard will help them make better, more informed choices with strict expectations about the service provided by intermediaries. It will also aid HMRC compliance and protect them from making customs declaration errors.
The Customs Intermediaries Standard differs from AEO because it is designed to be customer-facing. It aims to be visible to customers and support informed decision-making when choosing an intermediary.
The Standard does not replace AEO or any other existing authorisations. Instead, it differs by focusing on areas such as customer experience, transparency, best practice and the ongoing development of staff. The Standard has been developed for industry, by industry. Gov.uk
A dedicated certification scheme is expected soon. CustomsLink will be adopting the new standard when available.
Mandatory Registration for Customs Intermediaries
The UK Government is currently proposing a new mandatory registration for customs intermediaries. This new requirement will focus on a small number of essential checks to ensure they are compliant and capable of providing the correct level of service to traders. It also allows HMRC to prevent any harm caused 'unscrupulous actors'.
The Standard for Customs Intermediaries and voluntary certification will support traders to find good quality customs intermediaries, but the government is consulting on going further by mandating customs intermediaries who are critical to the operation of the border are meeting a set of mandatory minimum requirements to act. Gov.uk
This new proposal is currently in consultation. Our Head of Customs Technical & Development, Dan, has written more about the changes. More information to follow.
