In an era marked by globalisation, rapid digitalisation, and evolving geo-political developments, the ever-changing landscape of international trade has become increasingly intricate. These dynamic factors have not only impacted the way businesses operate but have also substantially increased the complexity of customs regulations. Simplifying this multifaceted trade environment has never been more crucial.
With our global network of trade and customs professionals, Kuehne+Nagel can help unlock hidden duty opportunities whilst supporting businesses in applying regulations. Above all, we like to keep it simple so you can focus on getting the job done.
Navigating trade and customs, together
From in-depth analyses to expert-led training, our range of customs and trade consultancy services helps you advance your operations to meet the market’s diverse challenges. Here is a closer look at some of the ways we can assist you.
Our customs and trade consultancy services at a glance
Customs health checks
It’s an understatement to say there are many moving parts when operating a business involved with international trade. Often, businesses face higher costs, inflated duty fees, and inefficient procedures due to a lack of visibility and understanding of customs procedures. Our customs health check quickly identifies these blind spots, helping your business become more agile.
Customs and trade scorecard
By gathering information from across your organisation, we compile this data into a quantifiable, interactive, and visual guide that maps your customs and trade activities. By scoring your business based on our standardised metrics, you can quickly identify opportunities and mitigate risk effectively.
Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) gap analysis
We will help you assess your current readiness for the AEO programme. This analysis will help you meet the AEO self-assessment and application process requirements. As well as pointing out blind spots and improvements, we will assist you whilst applying for AEO certification.
Harmonised System (HS) classification service
By classifying your entire product inventory for the EU and most global markets, we help give you a deep understanding of your duty obligations. Meeting legislative obligations brings stability and predictability into your supply chain.
Market entry data
Entering new markets can mean running into fresh challenges. By leveraging our global network and expertise, we can give you nuanced insights into the regulations you must meet. This readiness will set your business up for continued growth and success.
Retention pack
This service provides you with ongoing support and advice—view it as your one-stop shop for regulatory updates and ad-hoc queries. Retained on a monthly basis, our team are ready to help you circumvent any customs and trade concerns that occur.
Audit support and post-implementation review
Auditing can be a very lengthy and complex process. Fortunately, our expert team is on hand to provide full support on all customs and trade audits. Our global coverage means we are well-placed to help with specific national requirements.
Footprint analysis
Want a straightforward, visual, and simple snapshot of your overall customs and trade activity? This service gives you a single-page, board-level view of all your imports and exports, as well as your levels of compliance.
Training and support
Ensuring your business has the best possible foothold is our priority. Beyond our customs health checks, we can provide your staff with in-depth training on regulatory processes. As well as internal upskilling and on-site support, our team is on hand to assist you in auditing activities. We also support AEO, Economic Operator Registration and Identification (EORI) and VAT applications.
The benefits of choosing us as an expert consultant
Our experts are on hand to work with you to provide clear and insightful perspectives, whether managing the usual day-to-day customs and trade matters or mapping out a longer-term strategy. Here are some of the ways we can help:
- Establish and maintain effective, cost-efficient trade to meet your strategic goals.
- Identify organisational gaps and potential cost-saving opportunities.
- Ensure your shipments meet local regulations associated with international trade.
- Flexible trade solutions to fit specific operational, business or industry requirements.
- Mitigate risk from delays and penalties associated with cross-border business.
Experts at handling big numbers
Kuehne+Nagel has long-term experience in international trade and customs. In so doing, we are able to respond rapidly to changing market and regulatory conditions. Our global network includes former customs officials, industry professionals, certified customs brokers and specialists. Find out how you can benefit from our extensive range of expertise, coverage and simplified solutions.
Being recognised as a trusted trade partner by numerous authorities, we help businesses navigate trade efficiently. As well as holding Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) status, we are also certified by the Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT) and Partners in Protection (PIP).
Improving your bottom line via customs optimisation
Customs typically comprise of a far larger share of landed costs than transportation itself, yet companies are often preoccupied with the latter.
How much do you truly know about your duties and taxes?
Useful links:
Asia-Pacific
- Australian Border Force
- Australian Government—Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry
- General Administration of Customs of the People’s Republic of China
- Hong Kong—Customs and Excise Department
- India—Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs
- Indonesia—Directorate General of Customs and Tax
- Japan Customs
- Korea Customs Service
- Royal Malaysian Customs Department
- New Zealand—Customs Service
- Republic of the Philippines—Bureau of Customs
- Singapore Customs
- Taiwan—Customs Port Trade Single Window
- Thai Customs
- Vietnam Customs
Europe
- 6th VAT directive
- Check UK VAT number
- European Commission—Access2Markets
- European Commission—customs
- European Commission—member states' customs websites
- EORI number validation
- UK EORI validation
- UK Market Access database
- UK Taxation (Cross-Border Trade) Act 2018
- UK trade tariff
Middle East and Africa
- Egyptian Customs Authority
- Egyptian Tax Authority
- Kenya Revenue Authority
- KenTrade
- Nafeza platform
- Republic of Türkiye—Ministry of Trade
- Saber Platform
- Saudi Arabia Zakat, Tax, and Customs Authority
- South Africa Revenue Service (SARS)
- UAE Customs—Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security
- UAE Gateway—Federal Customs Authority
North America
- U.S. Customs and Border Protection
- U.S. Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration
- National Customs Agency of Mexico
- Mexico—Single Window for Foreign Trade
- Mexico—Servicio Nactional de Información de Comercio Exterior
- Canada Border Services Agency