Technology

As trade volumes increase, customs processes within many countries continue to evolve toward a higher degree of automation, increased use of electronic data transmission, and an account-based risk management focus. Governments want more detailed information, and sooner, than in the past, and now have the data processing capacity to very quickly spot compliance risks and inconsistencies in a company's customs filings. Governments have begun to cooperate with one another, exchanging information on traders which are compliance and security risks. These trends look set to continue, and quick clearance and other trade facilitations are increasingly contingent on a company's ability to meet higher compliance standards. Paper documentation has moved to electronic reporting, often in a government “single window” environment, and periodic submission of customs information has been moving rapidly to real-time submission of shipment data prior to an electronic release by customs. Electronic pre-notification requirements can mean an electronic notification to the authorities must precede the arrival of a shipment into a country by days or weeks, or even precede departure of the vessel from origin.

Companies both large and small face a very difficult challenge in meeting these reporting requirements. Consistent, accurate customs data cannot be provided in a timely manner if a company has a fragmented approach to customs processes. If the government views a company as one account across multiple sites, the company must act as one account or risk being cited for non-compliance. Without proper use of technology and automation in customs processes, it is virtually impossible to ensure accurate classifications are used consistently, to produce records in the event of an audit, or to adequately document preferential origin claims or eligibility for temporary import, drawback or other duty relief programs.

The Trusted Trade Alliance experts include some of the world's leaders in implementing regional and global customs IT systems. We can assist you in assessing your needs, analyzing the offerings available on the market, and in determining the best practices in the use of the latest technology to manage the legally-required reporting processes associated with the movement of goods across borders. Whether you are a small company looking for a local or outsourced IT solution, or a large company considering the installation of a global system, the Trusted Trade Alliance is able to provide you with comprehensive advice as well as access to technology proven in practice in some of the world's largest and most respected companies.