In an era marked by globalization, rapid digitalization, and evolving geo-political developments, the ever-changing landscape of international trade has become increasingly intricate. These dynamic factors have not only impacted the way businesses operate but have also substantially increased the complexity of customs regulations. Navigating this multifaceted trade environment has never been more crucial.
With our global network of trade and customs professionals, Kuehne+Nagel can help unlock hidden duty opportunities whilst supporting businesses in applying regulations. Above all, we like to keep it simple so you can focus on getting the job done.
Navigating trade and customs, together
From in-depth analyses to expert-led training, our range of customs and trade consultancy services helps you advance your operations to meet the market’s diverse challenges. Here is a closer look at some of the ways we can assist you.
Our customs and trade consultancy services at a glance
Customs health checks
It’s an understatement to say there are many moving parts when operating a business involved with international trade. Often, businesses face higher costs, inflated duty fees, and inefficient procedures due to a lack of visibility and understanding of customs procedures. Our customs health check quickly identifies these blind spots, helping your business become more agile.
Customs and trade scorecard
By gathering information from across your organization, we compile this data into a quantifiable, interactive, and visual guide that maps your customs and trade activities. This is called the Customs Business Intelligence Suite. By scoring your business based on our standardized metrics, you can quickly identify opportunities and mitigate risk effectively.
Expert gap analysis
We will help you assess your current readiness for your country’s security program. This analysis will help you meet the Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT), Partners in Protection (PIP), and Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) self-assessment and application process requirements. As well as pointing out blind spots and improvements, we will assist you whilst applying for certification.
Harmonized System (HS) classification service
By classifying your entire product inventory for most global markets, we help give you a deep understanding of your duty obligations. Meeting legislative obligations brings stability and predictability into your supply chain.
Compliance with new market regulations
Entering new markets can mean running into fresh challenges. By leveraging our global network and expertise, we can give you nuanced insights into the regulations you must meet. This readiness will set your business up for continued growth and success.
Audit support and post-entry review
Auditing can be a very lengthy and complex process. Fortunately, our expert team is on hand to provide full support on all customs and trade audits. Our global coverage means we are well-placed to help with specific national requirements.
Training and support
Ensuring your business has the best possible foothold is our priority. Beyond our customs health checks, we can provide your staff with in-depth training on regulatory processes. Our team can keep your company up to date on regulatory changes. As well as internal upskilling and on-site support, our team is on hand to assist you in auditing activities. We also support C-TPAT, PIP, and related AEO applications.
The benefits of choosing us as an expert consultant
Our experts are on hand to work with you to provide clear and insightful perspectives, whether managing the usual day-to-day customs and trade matters or mapping out a longer-term strategy. Here are some of the ways we can help:
- Establish and maintain effective, cost-efficient trade to meet your strategic goals.
- Identify organizational gaps and potential cost-saving opportunities.
- Ensure your shipments meet local regulations associated with international trade.
- Flexible trade solutions to fit specific operational, business or industry requirements.
- Mitigate risk from delays and penalties associated with cross-border business.
Experts at handling big numbers
Kuehne+Nagel has long-term experience in international trade and customs, enabling us to respond rapidly to changing market and regulatory conditions. Our North American network includes former customs officials, industry professionals, certified customs brokers, and specialists. To ensure timely and successful results, our dedicated implementation team manages every detail of each project we are awarded. Find out how you can benefit from our extensive range of expertise, coverage, and simplified solutions.
Being recognised as a trusted an Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) trade partner by numerous authorities, we help businesses navigate trade efficiently. As well as holding AEO status, we are also certified by the Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (C-TPAT) in the USA and Partners in Protection (PIP) in Canada. In Mexico, it is not possible to act as a direct customs broker, which is why we have developed strategic partnerships with AEO-certified local brokers. This enables us to support and secure your end-to-end international supply chain and handle your customs service requirements.
Improving your bottom line via customs optimization
Customs typically comprise of a far larger share of landed costs than transportation itself, yet companies are often preoccupied with the latter.
How much do you truly know about your duties and taxes?
Useful links:
United States of America
- U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)
- U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement
- Automated Clearinghouse
- Basic importing and exporting
- Cargo Systems Messaging Service
- Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism
- Informed Compliance Publications
- Partner Government Agencies Import Guides
- Priority Trade Issues - U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
- Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS)
- Federal Register
- International Trade Commission—trade data and analysis
Mexico
- SNICE National Service of Foreign Trade Information (Sistema Nacional de Información de Comercio Exterior)
- National Customs Agency of Mexico (ANAM Agencia Nacional de Aduanas)
- Customs Mexico—frequent Q&A
- Federal Commission for the Protection of Sanitary Risk (COFEPRIS)
- Directorate General de Normas (DGN)
- Industria Manufacturera, Maquiladora y de Servicios de Exportación (IMMEX) Program
- Mexico Economy Ministry (Secretaría de Economía)
- Mexico Free Trade Agreements (Acuerdos y Tratados de Libre Comercio)
- Mexican Government Procedures Portal (Portal de Trámites)
- PROSEC Program (Programa de Promoción Sectorial)
- Single Window for Foreign Trade (Ventanilla Única de Comercio Exterior)