Enhancing export efficiency through Approved Exporter status
In our previous news updates, we explored in detail two key authorisations achieved by E.C.S.: registration in the Registered Exporter System (REX), which enables us to self-certify the preferential origin of goods for simplified customs procedures, and recognition as an Approved Place, which allows us to handle customs operations directly at our premises for faster and more efficient logistics.
In addition, in September 2019, E.C.S. achieved a significant milestone by obtaining the Approved Exporter status from the European Union’s customs authorities. This authorisation demonstrates our commitment to streamlining export procedures and delivering greater value to our international partners. We will now delve deeper into what the Approved Exporter status entails, the steps and process required to obtain this authorisation, the countries involved, and the key benefits it offers our clients.
Understanding the Approved Exporter status
The Approved Exporter status is a facilitation measure provided under EU customs legislation. It allows exporters to self-certify the preferential origin of their goods directly on commercial documents, such as invoices, eliminating the need for traditional movement certificates like the EUR.1 or EUR-MED. This self-certification is particularly beneficial when exporting to countries with which the EU has established preferential trade agreements.
Process of becoming an Approved Exporter
To obtain the Approved Exporter status, E.C.S. underwent a comprehensive evaluation by the competent customs authority. The process involved:
- Application submission: providing detailed information about our export activities and internal procedures.
- Demonstrating compliance: ensuring our ability to prove the preferential origin of goods and maintain accurate records.
- Commitment to responsibility: accepting full responsibility for the correctness of origin declarations and compliance with relevant regulations.
Once authorized, this status is valid for all exports of goods covered under the preferential agreements, streamlining our operations and enhancing service delivery to our clients.
Benefits of the Approved Exporter status
By holding the Approved Exporter status, E.C.S. can offer several advantages to our clients:
- Simplified export procedures: streamlining the certification process reduces administrative burdens and expedites customs clearance.
- Cost savings: eliminating the need for EUR.1 certificates reduces associated costs and documentation requirements.
- Enhanced reliability: self-certification minimizes the risk of errors that can occur with external certification processes.
- Time efficiency: faster processing times lead to quicker delivery schedules and improved customer satisfaction.
Countries benefiting from preferential trade agreements
The EU has established preferential trade agreements with numerous countries, allowing for reduced or zero import duties on qualifying goods. Some of these countries include:
- EFTA Countries: Switzerland, Iceland, Norway, Faroe Islands
- Mediterranean Partners: Turkey, Algeria, Tunisia, Morocco, Israel, Palestine, Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Syria
- Western Balkans and Eastern Europe: Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Serbia, Moldova, Georgia, Ukraine
- Others: Andorra, Ceuta and Melilla, South Africa, Mexico, Chile, Peru, Colombia, Central American states, South Korea
E.C.S. actively exports to several of these countries, including Algeria, Tunisia, Morocco, Israel, Serbia, Chile, and South Korea.
Our commitment to excellence
At E.C.S., our dedication to operational excellence is reflected in our pursuit of certifications and authorizations that enhance our service offerings. In addition to the Approved Exporter status, we have also secured the Approved Place status and registration in the Registered Exporter System (REX). These achievements enable us to provide:
- Faster handling: reduced delays in logistic trade flows.
- Simplified customs procedures: streamlined bureaucracy for efficient processing.
- Time savings: accelerated operations leading to prompt deliveries.
- Responsive problem-solving: immediate handling of issues and emergencies.
By leveraging these authorizations, we ensure that our clients benefit from efficient, reliable, and compliant export services.
For any information about how to benefit from our Approved Exporter service, we invite you to get in touch with us.
