Audit: Think You’re Compliant? Think Again

Passing customs clearance doesn’t mean you're safe. Learn what customs really checks—and how to avoid costly audits.

Navigating Customs: Understanding the Checks Beyond Clearance to Avoid Expensive Audits.

Customs compliance in the EU, UK, and USA is not just a box-ticking exercise. It’s a strategic necessity. Many companies think, "We got through clearance—we’re compliant."

Unfortunately, that's a myth that can cost millions. In my role as a Customs Consultant, I’ve seen it all: delayed shipments, sky-high penalties, and broken supply chains—all because someone underestimated what customs authorities care about.

Key Questions Covered in This Blog

1. Why is customs classification more than just assigning a code?

2. How does customs valuation go beyond intercompany pricing?

3. What really determines the country of origin?

4. Why is poor recordkeeping a ticking time bomb?

5. What role does restricted party screening play in compliance?

6. What are the most common customs myths that put you at risk?

7. What should be on your customs pre-audit checklist?

   
   

Abbreviations Used in This Blog

• FTA – Free Trade Agreement

• BTI – Binding Tariff Information

• BOM – Bill of Materials

• WTO – World Trade Organization

• CBP – U.S. Customs and Border Protection

• UCC – Union Customs Code

"Passing customs clearance is not proof of compliance. It’s merely the beginning of scrutiny. Real compliance means being audit-ready, always."— Arne Mielken, Managing Director, Customs Manager

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Why is customs classification more than just assigning a code?

It’s tempting to rely on your broker to pick the HTS codes. After all, they do this every day, right? But customs doesn't care who typed it in. You are the importer of record. If your code is wrong, you pay.

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