Custom’s accreditation changes

Internationally recognised as a mark of security and quality excellence, Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) status is an independent endorsement that our international supply chain processes are secure and that our customs controls and procedures are efficient, effective and legally compliant.

In June 2005 the World Customs Organisation (WCO) adopted the SAFE Framework of Standards to Secure and Facilitate Global Trade (SAFE Framework) to provide a defend against international terrorism and facilitate trade worldwide.

The Authorised Economic Operator programme is a core part of SAFE; creating Customs-to-business partnerships that secure the supply chain and facilitate trade flows. Metro recognised the benefits15 years ago and were one of the first successful applicants in the UK to gain approval. Following Metro’s successful accreditation, our other brands Elite UK and Fracht UK have attained their own AEO status.

After the 1st January 2021 our EU AEO status has been transferred from the EU to UK AEO authorisation, under the control of HMRC, who will perform the regular audits that confirm the integrity of our internal controls and systems to protect our business and customers supply chains from any risks and that our staff screening and training and Customs procedures are effective and compliant.

Metro’s AEO accreditation means fewer physical and documentary examinations, priority use of non-intrusive inspection techniques, when examination is required, and priority processing by Customs whenever security awareness is heightened and Preferred or Trusted Trader status becomes decisive.

AEO status, combined with our electronic links to HMRC and CUDOS brokerage platform simplify the importation and exportation process, bringing faster and more efficient clearance of goods at Customs frontiers, to keep your European and global trade moving.