Navigating customs regulations has never been more complex. In Europe, and likely other regions, the world of customs is hectic, to say the least. All customs software systems are being changed by EU and the local customs authorities.
In my more than 25 years in the business, I have never seen anything like this. We are used to local changes in technical communication with governments or updating fields, content and legislation but this is massive!
The changing customs landscape
Although EmmaSped, our customs management and filing system, “only” operates in four Nordic countries, the last two years have been some of the busiest we’ve ever experienced.
We are talking completely new import and export solutions in all countries, NCTS 5 and 6, ICS2, just to mention a few. And while the storm may ease a little in the coming months, being in the customs business means you’re always preparing for the next wave of updates.
And this isn’t just about adapting to changes. For a customs software provider, it’s about delivering a promise—a promise that ensures trucks keep moving, goods don’t get stuck, and businesses operate smoothly.
The stakes are high
For Emma Systems, our priority is clear: Deliver every customs update on time.
Our customers depend on us. Many of them operate in the forwarding and transportation industry, where every customs procedure and module are critical. Delays or missed updates aren’t just an inconvenience—they could stop shipments in their tracks and damage our customers’ businesses.
If we miss a deadline, it’s not just a software issue—it’s a logistics crisis. Goods don’t move, trucks don’t roll, and trust is broken
In a few years, we will start all over again, preparing and implementing the new EU Customs Reform, that will really change the way we deal with customs, so being in the customs business is never boring!
What should you expect from your customs software provider?
For you, as a user or customer of a solution, there is also a lot to think about. It requires new customs knowledge, training in new systems, a change to your operations, informing trading partners, changing interfaces to your customs solution and providing additional information to your LSPs (Logistics Service Partners).
If you are buying the customs services from other companies, this also changes a lot for you. You need to have some understanding of what is required from you as your company is legally responsible for the correctness of the customs work and documentation.
Choosing a customs software provider is about more than just the product. It’s about partnership. In my experience, there are some key considerations that truly matter when evaluating a provider, such as:
- Domain Expertise: Do they truly understand customs and your industry?
- Technical Stability: Can you trust that the solution is available in the hours you need it?
- Operational Support: Can their solutions integrate seamlessly with your operations and automate processes?
- Data Utilisation: Do they leverage your existing systems—TMS, ERP, etc.—to streamline workflows?
- Financial Stability: Are they here for the long run?
- Skill and Growth: Do they have the expertise to keep up with changing demands? Are they retaining and growing their customer base?
- Pricing: Is their pricing reasonable? Beware of solutions that seem too cheap—they might lack the resources and expertise needed to deliver on their promises
At Emma Systems, we check all these boxes. However, we’re also transparent about our role: we’re a technology provider first and foremost. While we have deep customs expertise, we focus on delivering robust software solutions—not consulting or legal advice.
Adapting to the evolving compliance landscape
Customs compliance is no longer just about meeting basic regulatory requirements—it’s about adapting to a rapidly evolving landscape shaped by stricter enforcement, sustainability demands like CBAM and EUDR, and increased scrutiny of customs data accuracy.
This is where tools like Emma E-Doc become invaluable
Our customs compliance platform is designed to adapt to these evolving demands. Whether it’s consolidating all your customs documents, verifying and analysing customs data, or enabling self-audits to ensure accuracy, Emma E-Doc helps you stay ahead of the curve.
A partnership you can trust
As a business navigating customs compliance, you have a lot on your plate: training staff, adapting operations, ensuring data accuracy, and managing logistics partners. The right software provider can help simplify these complexities, allowing you to focus on what you do best.
At Emma Systems, our commitment is simple: deliver on time, deliver with expertise, and deliver solutions that make a real difference.
If you’re looking for a partner who understands your challenges and works tirelessly to solve them, we’re here to help. Let’s move forward together!
(…and I didn’t even start talking about the groundbreaking new solutions we are developing and will start introducing this year – it will blow your mind!)
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