Centralized Clearance Export Belgium: easier export through CCE

Gradually something fundamental is changing in the European export process. With the advent of Centralized Clearance for Export (CCE), companies can file their export declarations in another EU country than where the goods are physically located. This opens up new opportunities, especially for those operating internationally from multiple warehouses or production locations.

What is CCE?

CCE is a simplification within the EU Customs Code (UCC) that facilitates exports. It allows export declarations to be managed centrally through a customs office in one EU member state, even if the goods are in another country. CCE is combinable with most declaration types except B and E, and prelodged or simplified declarations are also eligible.

How exactly does it work?

CCE involves several customs offices:

• Export office: always located in Belgium
• Presentation office: customs office where the goods are located (e.g. Düsseldorf Nord)
• Supervising office: complete only if different from export office

 
In doing so, the export office is responsible for communication with the declarant and should provide the presentation office with the necessary information to perform any checks.
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Who is this for?

Not just anyone is eligible. Only companies with AEO authorization can apply for CCE authorization. The process requires documentation, consultation and approval by customs. A manual is available for the application process. When this authorization is granted you can indicate this in the declaration by using authorization code C513. The authorization holder (equal to declarant in the declaration) must state his EORI number as 'Authorization holder'. In the Netherlands and Luxembourg you must also state a license number in the reference of this authorization.

What does this mean for your customs flows?

With CCE, you get as an exporter:

• More flexibility in your supply chain
• One central customs office for all your declarations
• Less administration across multiple countries
• Complete control from your familiar ERP environment

But beware: correct setup is crucial. Things such as goods location, authorization code, presentation office and EORI data must end up in your declaration without error. A number of business rules apply for this (such as VRE_026, VRE_283, VRE_440, etc.).

Ready to use CCE?

Then check beforehand:

• Do you have a valid CCE permit on your Belgian EORI?
• Is the presentation office completed correctly and outside of Belgium?
• For types A and C: is the location of the goods fully completed?
• Supervising office only complete if different from export office?
• Correctly add authorization C513, including EORI and reference BECCL
• Centralized Clearance is not a mandatory step, but for those thinking internationally, it is a smart one. Less fragmentation, more overview - and one step closer to true customs integration into your digital processes.

You can also use CCE for export in Luxembourg, both Luxembourg customs and Stream Software are ready for this. The operation is completely analogous to that of Belgium, with the addition that you must include your C513 license number in the reference. The Netherlands is still some time away with an expected go live in 2026. However, the specifications are already known, and support for CCE is already in development. Operation will be identical to that in Belgium and Luxembourg. Want to know more about the application of CCE in your situation? Feel free to contact us.

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