Advantages of Partnering with an Authorized Economic Operator

According to the World Customs Organization (WCO), an authorized economic operator (AEO) is a party involved in the international movement of goods in whatever function that has been approved by or on behalf of a national customs administration as complying with WCO or equivalent supply chain security standards.

Formed to protect global supply chains from terrorism and other threats, AEO programs exist in countries around the world under various names. The U.S. AEO program, for example, is called the Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (CTPAT).

Beyond freight forwarders, AEOs can include manufacturers, importers, exporters, brokers, carriers, consolidators, ports, airports, terminal operators, warehouses, distributors and other organizations.

Yes, all our U.S. facilities are CTPAT certified, and our Antwerp, Belgium, five Germany locations (Biberach, Bremen, Frankfurt, Greven, and Stuttgart) and three U.K. locations (Exeter, Manchester and London) are also accredited AEOs.

There are many AEO benefits. To start, working with an authorized economic operator to move your freight delivers priority customs clearance treatment, faster, more efficient shipments, as well as enhanced security and improved risk mitigation (i.e., less chance of food spoilage, customs delays, etc.). Learn more about why AEO accreditation is an internationally recognized mark of supply chain security and quality at cbp.gov.

Nothing! CTPAT (or the Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism) is the U.S.-specific authorized economic operator program, overseen by the U.S. Customs and Border Patrol. Countries all over the world (nearly every member of the WCO) have their own AEO programs. Learn more at cbp.gov.