"We empower global trade by making customs easy" is how Edwin Hageman describes Customs Support's activities in a nutshell. This Dutch company specializes in customs formalities and helps customers import, export, and transit to save time and costs, all above board.
Customs Support serves 30,000 clients, from good owners to logistical service providers, in diverse sectors, including fresh produce. With nearly 100 offices and 1,900 employees in 14 European countries, they can guarantee smooth customs clearance everywhere. Edwin emphasizes the importance of a local presence in these processes: "Our many offices mean we're always on top of things."
Customs handling in the Netherlands
Roy van Leeuwen runs the Kapelle office near the Dutch port of Flushing, which focuses on customs clearance of bananas, citrus, and onions. "We provide fast handling of EUR1 certificates and Certificates of Origin and bring the products directly to the customer," says Roy. There are also specialists for phytosanitary declarations, ensuring a smooth inspection and quick P2 codes.
This office is currently bustling with onion imports from Egypt. "We receive dozens of containers daily, so it's pretty busy." Customs Support has 12 offices in the Netherlands, including in the port of Rotterdam and Schiphol Airport, where they are the largest inspection point for perishable air freight. "The Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority can inspect these goods and issue certificates," Roy explains.
Perishables: speed is crucial
Speed is essential when importing and exporting perishable goods. "Any delay can be detrimental and cost-prohibitive," says Edwin. Failure to comply with legislation can also result in sizeable fines or the destruction of goods. "Our specialization is much needed."
Customs Support offers a digital platform that easily moves large volumes through customs. "This combination of digitalization, local presence, and local market and legislation knowledge helps organizations tremendously," explains Edwin.
Diverse clients and sectors
The company's largest customer group comprises freight forwarders and logistics service providers who value Customs Support's expertise. They also do direct business with goods owners, where logistics parties only provide transportation. Customs Support offers a safety system for container transport, where the containers are degassed to give staff and customs officials safe access. Edwin adds that their services go far beyond those of a generic logistics provider.
Customs Support also provides machine clearance for the fruit and vegetable sector. "Every sector has its dynamics, and we have specialized teams ready for each," Edwin concludes.
For more information:
Customs Support
11-19 Willem Barentsz Street
3165 AA, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
Tel: +31 (0) 880 601 600
Email: [email protected]
www.customssupport.nl