What Is AEO Certification and Why It Matters in Global Shipping 

If you’re shipping goods internationally, the AEO (Authorised Economic Operator) certification can make a big difference. As an AEO-certified logistics provider, Levaco enjoys recognized reliability across EU borders, benefiting our clients through faster customs clearance, fewer inspections, and streamlined documentation.

AEO status demonstrates that our processes meet strict customs, security, and compliance standards. This not only boosts efficiency but also reduces the risk of delays or penalties, giving you peace of mind.

In short, when you work with an AEO-certified partner like Levaco, your supply chain becomes faster, safer, and more resilient.

Since 2012, Levaco has been AEO certified and ready to handle all your shipments and more!

 

Belgium’s New Customs Systems: What You Need to Know

Belgium is rolling out a series of major updates to its customs processes, aligning with EU legislation and making international trade smoother, safer, and more transparent. These changes directly impact importers, exporters, freight forwarders, and logistics providers who use Belgian gateways such as the Port of Antwerp-Bruges.

Here are the most important updates:

  • Inbound Release Platform (IRP)
    Launched on April 1, 2025, the IRP is a collaboration between Belgian Customs, the Port of Antwerp-Bruges, NxtPort, and The Way Forward. This new system streamlines the handling of import, transshipment, and transit cargo by centralizing data exchange between customs, shipping agents, terminals, and logistics providers. The result: faster clearance, more transparency, and greater security in the supply chain.

 

  • Presentation Notification & Temporary Storage (PN/TS)
    A new requirement under EU customs law, PN/TS ensures compliance with stricter data reporting rules for goods entering EU territory. Belgian seaports are now required to use this system, and the IRP is designed to support the process.

 

  • NCTS Phase 5
    As of January 21, 2025, Belgium has made Phase 5 of the New Computerised Transit System mandatory. This upgrade changes the way transit declarations are processed:

    • Messaging now shifts from EDIFACT to XML.
    • More detailed HS codes are required.
    • Data must be fully aligned with the EU Customs Data Model (EUCDM).

 

  • IDMS (Import Declaration Management System)
    Part of the EU’s broader MASP-C customs modernization plan, IDMS is gradually replacing Belgium’s older PLDA platform for import declarations. Piloted in late 2024, IDMS is set to become the new standard, with declarations progressively migrating to the system over the coming months.

Why It Matters

These updates are more than just technical adjustments. They are designed to improve efficiency, reinforce compliance with EU regulations, and make Belgian ports stronger hubs for international trade.

Businesses trading through Belgium should be aware of these changes and adapt their processes to avoid disruptions.

Source: Port of Antwerp-Bruges Newsroom