Outsourcing Customs

The Key to Streamlining International Trade Compliance Processes

Customs and trade compliance is a complex and ever-changing component of international trade, that demands specialised knowledge and constant attention. Companies engaged in global trade face numerous challenges, including evolving regulations, tariffs, border security, documentation requirements, and reporting obligations. Managing these tasks in-house can be costly, time-consuming, and risky. However, there is a solution that can help businesses save costs, increase efficiency, improve quality, security and reduce risks: outsourcing customs and trade compliance processes.

 Outsourcing customs and trade compliance offers several advantages. First and foremost, it allows companies to focus on their core competencies and strategic goals by freeing up internal resources. Instead of dedicating time and effort to navigating the complexities of customs and trade compliance, businesses can rely on the expertise, resources, and technology of a trusted outsourcing partner. This partner can handle the operational tasks involved in complying with customs and trade regulations, allowing the company to redirect its attention to more critical aspects of its operations.

The typical challenges faced by businesses in the field of customs include a lack of internal capacity or expertise, a lack of transparency or consistency in compliance processes, high costs and risks, and the complexity and volatility of the field. Outsourcing helps address these challenges in several ways. Firstly, it provides access to specialised knowledge and skills that may not be available within the organisation. Instead of hiring and training staff for these tasks, companies can rely on the expertise of their outsourcing partner. This not only saves costs but also ensures that compliance processes are performed according to industry best practices and evolving standards.

Additionally, outsourcing streamlines and automates customs and trade compliance processes, reducing manual work and human errors. By leveraging advanced software solutions and technology, outsourced partners can improve the speed and accuracy of data entry, documentation, reporting, communication and archiving. This efficiency gain not only saves time but also reduces the risk of errors that can lead to penalties, fines, and delays. Moreover, outsourcing helps companies stay updated and adapt quickly to changes in regulations, geopolitical events, trade disputes, and technological developments. Outsourcing partners monitor these changes and ensure that their clients remain compliant and well-prepared.

When considering outsourcing customs, businesses need to carefully select a partner that meets their specific needs. Several factors should be considered, including the partner’s expertise and experience in the field, their technological capabilities and adaptability to existing systems, their flexibility and responsiveness (if sometimes you need your declaration produced in 15 minutes – can they do it?), their compliance with industry standards and regulations, and their communication and collaboration practices. By choosing the right partner, businesses can unlock the full potential of international trade while minimising costs, risks, and complexities.

It’s important to note that not all customs tasks are suitable for outsourcing. Customs and trade compliance processes can be divided into operational tasks and strategic tasks. Operational tasks, which are more standardised, repetitive, labour-intensive, or technology-dependent, are more suitable for outsourcing. These tasks include product classification, documentation preparation or verification, filing, duty calculation, and audit support. On the other hand, strategic tasks, which involve planning or decision making related to the organisation’s business objectives or goals, may be outsourced to a limited extent or in collaboration with the in-house team. Examples of strategic tasks include trade advisory, compliance management, risk assessment, and duty optimisation.

In conclusion, outsourcing customs and trade compliance processes can offer significant benefits to businesses engaged in global trade. By leveraging the expertise, resources, and technology of an outsourcing partner, companies can save costs, increase efficiency, improve quality, and reduce risks. It is crucial to carefully choose a partner that aligns with the company’s needs and requirements. By outsourcing the right tasks and working with a reliable partner, businesses can navigate the complexities of customs and trade compliance effectively, unlocking the full potential of global trade.

If you are considering outsourcing your customs brokerage services, FLS is a renowned name in the industry. FLS offers bespoke, reliable back-office services for customs. get in touch with FLS and discuss your project requisites with experienced professionals.

Ieuan Rosser, CEO