- The topic
- Monteverdi (Customs of Genoa):
The AEO works if the whole chain participates - An Italian consolidator and forwarder reported recently that levels of customs control of containers in Italy are high even for those who have taken the status of Aeo (authorized economic operator). The Aeo should instead ensure the reliability of the operator and of his goods and reduce the bureaucratic burden. “An Aeo status - explains the website of Italian Customs - allows economic operators to benefit from direct or indirect advantages and facilitations when performing customs operations”.
The italian forwarder case testifies there are still some misunderstandings on the real benefits of acquiring the status of Aeo, which is optional. The non-obligatoriness should be offset by the advantages, which should encourage the operator to certify. However, the mechanism works if all the suplly chain is certified. If one link is missing, the others may not get all the benefits expected. "We are still - say Claudio Monteverdi, Director of Customs of Genoa – at the beginning and some players are afraid to undergo the required checks. Until are'nt certified all actors, from the shipowner to the shipper and the shipping agent, a single Aeo can be penalized".
In Italy were given 192 Aeo certification, of which 78 Custom (Aeoc), 3 Security (Aeos, generally for truckers) and 111 Full (Custom + Security). The Aeoc allows for simplifications in customs procedures, while the Aeos allow for any discounts on controls relating to security. - Num 1, Monday, February 15, 2010
