Customs intermediaries Voluntary Standard - Specification published

The voluntary standard specification (PAS 41201) is a specification for customs intermediary organizations, fulfilling customs declarations on behalf of others. The PAS was developed in response to the public sentiment expressed in an HMRC public consultation.

You can view and download a free copy of the voluntary standard specification here.

PAS 41201:2026 is designed for organizations that act as customs intermediaries and are responsible for preparing and submitting customs declarations or providing related customs services on behalf of traders. This includes:

• Customs brokers, agents and advisers
• Fast parcel operators (FPOs)
• Freight forwarders
• Warehouse operators
• Hauliers

These businesses play a central role in helping traders move goods across borders by supporting accurate declarations, meeting obligations, and keeping goods flowing efficiently through the customs system.

PAS 41201:2026 sets out the core principles and behaviours that customs intermediaries should follow when fulfilling customs declarations and carrying out closely related services (such as paying tariffs or duties, or arranging the movement of goods). 

It defines what good practice looks like across the end‑to‑end process of acting on a client’s behalf within the customs system.

Key clauses of the PAS cover:

• Auditing
• Due diligence
• Crisis response
• Training
• Systems, process and data
• Transparency

Overall, PAS 41201:2026 defines the practices, controls and behaviours needed for customs intermediary organizations to meet their obligations and support effective, compliant border operations.

You can view and download a free copy of the voluntary standard specification here.