What is an AREX Number and How Does it Relate to Customs Clearance?

The AREX number is an identification code used by Customs that relates to security information declarations for incoming and outgoing goods at EU external borders. It serves as a unique identification number that allows authorities to track shipments and perform necessary risk analyses. The AREX system handles declarations related to the security and verification of goods, which are a mandatory part of the customs clearance process in international trade.

What is an AREX number and what is it used for?

The AREX number (Advanced Risk Entry eXit) is a unique identification number generated in the Customs system that relates to security information declarations for incoming and outgoing goods. It is an 18-character code consisting of the declaration type, year, and a sequential number series. The AREX number is created when a security information declaration is registered in the Customs system.

The AREX system is an application used by Finnish Customs to process security information declarations for goods crossing EU external borders. These declarations include the Entry Summary Declaration (ENS), presentation notification of arrival, and presentation notification of exit.

The AREX number enables authorities to identify and track shipments throughout the entire customs clearance process. It facilitates efficient risk analysis and helps ensure that goods entering and leaving the EU meet security requirements. For businesses, the AREX number serves as an important reference for tracking shipments.

How does the AREX number relate to the customs clearance process?

The AREX number is a central part of the customs clearance process as it connects the Entry Summary Declaration and the presentation notification, creating an unbroken chain of monitoring for the movement of goods. When goods arrive at the EU’s external border, an Entry Summary Declaration has already been submitted in advance, generating an AREX number. This same number is used when the goods are presented to customs at the border.

In the import process, security information is first registered in the AREX system, followed by a presentation notification when the goods arrive in the EU. Only after this can the actual customs clearance proceed. In the export process, the AREX number is linked to exit confirmation when goods leave the EU territory.

Freight forwarding services play a key role in managing AREX processes. Kouvola Cargo Handling offers comprehensive forwarding services where we handle all customs-related declarations on behalf of the customer, including notifications related to the AREX system. This ensures a smooth and delay-free customs process for international shipments.

When and how is an AREX number obtained?

The AREX number is automatically generated when a security information declaration is registered in the Customs AREX system. The Entry Summary Declaration must be submitted within predefined timeframes before the goods arrive in the EU. For sea transport, the deadlines vary from 24 hours to 4 hours depending on the duration of transport, while for road transport, the declaration must be submitted at least 1 hour before arrival.

To submit the declaration, information about the sender, recipient, transported products, shipment composition, and means of transport is required. The declaration can be made by the importer, freight forwarder, or transport company that has the necessary permits to use Customs systems.

Many companies outsource the submission of declarations to forwarding companies that handle the process professionally. We offer our customers comprehensive forwarding services, including the preparation and monitoring of AREX declarations. We help ensure that all declarations are made in a timely and error-free manner, which prevents delays in the customs process.

What problems can occur with the AREX number and how are they resolved?

The most common problems related to the AREX system include incomplete or incorrect information in declarations, system disruptions, and scheduling challenges. If a declaration contains errors or deficiencies, Customs may request additional clarification or reject the declaration entirely, which delays the movement of goods and can cause additional costs.

During system disruptions, Customs typically provides operating instructions that allow declarations to be submitted through backup systems. Scheduling challenges can be prepared for by submitting declarations well in advance and ensuring that all necessary information is available beforehand.

A professional freight forwarder like Kouvola Cargo Handling can prevent AREX system-related problems with their expertise. However, if problems do arise, we help resolve them quickly. We maintain up-to-date information on Customs requirements and system changes, and ensure that our customers’ customs processes run as smoothly as possible in all situations.

Our forwarding services cover the entire customs clearance process from start to finish, which means fewer worries and more certainty for our customers in international transport. We are at your service when you need expertise with AREX declarations or other customs-related matters.