What is AEOC (Authorised Economic Operators - Customs Simplifications)?

Overview

AEOC stands for Authorised Economic Operator Customs Simplification. It is a voluntary customs authorisation for businesses involved in international trade that meet HMRC’s criteria for customs compliance, record keeping, financial solvency and practical customs competence.

AEOC status demonstrates that a business has appropriate customs procedures and controls in place and may provide access to certain customs simplifications and facilitations.

Benefits of AEOC

Depending on whether the business is established in Great Britain or Northern Ireland, AEOC holders may benefit from:

• Faster application processes for certain customs simplifications and authorisations.

• A lower risk score, which may reduce the number of customs checks on documents and goods.

• Priority treatment for customs controls for eligible Northern Ireland traders.

• Certain guarantee waivers or reductions, subject to the applicable conditions.

Holding AEOC can also help speed up applications for other customs authorisations because HMRC may not need to reassess criteria that have already been examined as part of the AEO application.

Eligibility

To apply for AEOC status, a business must generally:

1. Be a legal entity.

2. Be established in the UK.

3. Be actively involved in customs operations and international trade.

4. Have an EORI number.

5. Meet the relevant AEO criteria assessed by HMRC.
   
   

For AEOC, HMRC also assesses practical customs competence. This can include relevant experience of the person responsible for the business’s customs matters.

Businesses can apply for AEOC, AEOS, or both. Holding both statuses is sometimes referred to as Authorised Economic Operator Full (AEOF).

Need Help?

If you need assistance understanding AEOC requirements or how AEO status is used in iCustoms, please contact our support team. Contact Support Team