EUDR Compliance Ops Checklist
- Arne Mielken
- Sep 26
- 3 min read
🔒Unlock 10 practical steps, in the right order, to fully prepare for EUDR by 30 Dec 2026—don’t risk being caught off guard!
Even with a potential delay, customs professionals must prepare for enforcement. The EUDR requires that importers demonstrate deforestation-free sourcing for commodities including:
Palm oil
Soy
Cocoa
Coffee
Timber
Beef
Rubber
Derivatives are also included. Non-compliance can result in shipments being blocked at the border, causing operational, legal, and reputational consequences.
Key Compliance Requirements
Customs officers should be aware that importers must conduct robust due diligence:
Traceability: Identify the origin of goods and all suppliers.
Risk Assessment: Evaluate deforestation or land degradation risks.
Mitigation: Document measures to reduce identified risks.
Geolocation: Provide precise land coordinates, verified via satellite imagery or on-site checks.
Importers must submit a formal due diligence declaration to EU authorities prior to clearance. Customs may request these records during inspections, audits, or routine enforcement.
EUDR Operational Checklist for Customs Professionals
1. Verify Importer Registration
Confirm the importer is registered as an economic operator in the EUDR system.
Note potential delays if the IT system is not fully operational.
Flag incomplete registrations for follow-up once the system is fully functional.
2. Commodity Scope Verification
Confirm the shipment falls under EUDR coverage:
Palm oil, soy, cocoa, coffee, timber, beef, rubber.
Derivatives of the above commodities.
Flag mixed or processed products for additional checks.
3. Identify Your Role in the Supply Chain
Determine whether you are an operator, a trader, or another actor.
Understand that upstream operators carry heavier compliance obligations; downstream traders have lighter duties.
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