Remote clearance, i.e. customs clearance performed remotely without a physical presence in a customs agency, has gained significant popularity over the last year due to a number of factors, particularly including pandemic-related restrictions. The digitization of customs systems has not only improved clearance processes but also led to measurable savings for customers.

Dorota Klim-Siemieńczuk

“Recently, over 50% of customs clearance at AsstrA’s customs agencies in Białystok and Kuźnica is done remotely. This check-in method has many benefits for customers. For example, when we are dealing with large shipments from China – with some goods arriving by train, some by trucks, and some by ship to the Port of Gdańsk – we can still clear the entire order in one customs agency. Working with clients this way allows to provide comprehensive services of consistently high quality,” emphasizes Dorota Klim-Siemieńczuk, Manager of the AsstrA Polska customs agency in Kuźnica.

When declaring goods, the procedure itself does not change. The difference is that documents that would have been presented physically during customs clearance can now be sent by email to the agency providing remote customs clearance services.

“Remote clearance has tangible benefits not only for businesses trading goods internationally but also for carriers, who have greater flexibility when choosing the place and time of customs clearance. With this kind of handling, even goods that are loaded on Fridays after agency working hours do not sit idle all weekend. The customer can report the goods around the clock at a convenient location anywhere in the country. Thanks to digitization, we are able to reduce vehicle downtime and keep international deliveries running smoothly,” adds Dorota Klim-Siemieńczuk.

As part of its international transport and logistics service portfolio, AsstrA-Associated Traffic AG provides customs clearance support in Germany, Lithuania, Belarus, Russia and Poland. AsstrA customs brokers in Poland are located at the Koroszczyn Car Terminal, in Białystok, and at the Kuźnica border crossing.