Münster, 19 April 2013 – Faster and more reliable: since January 2013, Armacell GmbH and Armacell Logistics GmbH have been certified as Authorised Economic Operators (AEO) by the German customs authori-ties. An Authorised Economic Operator has a special status: the company is regarded as being particularly reliable and trustworthy and as such enjoys special benefits concerning customs clearance. The European Union’s AEO-F certificate combines customs simplifications with security and safety and is the most demanding type of AEO certification. This means that Armacell can handle customs formalities faster and more efficiently from now on. Customers benefit from more reliable delivery processes. As the largest Armacell production facilities and the international Armacell holding company are located in Münster, the majority of Armacell products sold on the European market are distrib-uted through this site.
Faster and more efficient delivery service
The introduction of the Authorised Economic Operator is a key element inthe EU security concept. In order to obtain the certificate, companies must meet comprehensive conditions. These include compliance with customs require-ments, reliability, financial solvency and fulfilment ofthe relevant legal and safety regulations. Authorised Economic Operators enjoy a number of privi-leges and the AEO certificate also leads to indirect benefits due to improve-ments in safety and security standards within the company.
The advantages at a glance:
- customs simplifications
- easingin customs security and safety controls and priority clearance
- fewer physical and document-based controls and
- higher transparency through internal control system: traceability of flows of goods, increased transport security (reduced theft, losses), fewer delays in dispatch; improved security between supply chain partners.
With the AEO certificate Armacell has created the conditions for an even faster, more efficient delivery service for its customers, particularly those outside the European Union.
Further advantages of international recognition
The status of an Authorised Economic Operator is valid in all member states of the EU and does not expire. However, the certification is continuously reviewed by the customs authorities and therefore requires permanent monitoring. Further benefits are likely to arise soon after the AEO certificate is recognised internationally. Negotiations are currently being held with Switzerland, the USA and Asian countries suchas China in order to achieve harmonisation and mutual recognition of the security standards. The long-term objective is for contracting parties to grant status holders the same benefits as those granted to status holders in the respective other country.
