Shorter customs control notice period: more control, less flexibility?

Customs authorities want to make their inspections more unpredictable. That’s why a new proposal is on the table to significantly shorten the notice period — the time between notification and the actual inspection. Right now, that period is 72 hours, but starting January 1, 2026, it’s expected to drop to just 24 hours. Logistics companies are worried, and rightly so: this change could seriously disrupt daily operations.

“Customs want to surprise, but businesses need to plan.”

The shorter notice period is meant to help combat drug trafficking. Less time between notification and inspection would make it harder for criminals to leak information about upcoming controls. That makes sense on paper — but in practice, it creates uncertainty for logistics operations. If you only find out a day in advance that a container is being held, your truck may already be en route. And that makes it nearly impossible to adjust your planning in time.

A shorter notice period comes with clear risks:

• Disruptions in the supply chain: If a container is unexpectedly delayed, your entire planning falls apart.

• Higher costs: Drivers are left waiting or sent out for nothing.

• Operational stress: Less time to respond means more pressure on planning teams.

The industry understands the need for tighter inspections, but also calls for balance. Customs authorities have been asked to provide data to justify the necessity of this change. At the same time, positive steps have already been taken through the Trusted Chain project, which limits access to sensitive information in the logistics chain — and that’s proven effective against leaks. So, the question remains: is such a drastic cut in the notice period really still needed?

“The Trusted Chain works — so why shorten the notice period anyway?”

What can you do now?

• Map out your planning process: where are the weak spots?

• Talk to your customs broker or freight forwarder: how do they respond to sudden delays?

• Stay informed about changes to the notice period policy.

How does Akomar support you?

• Risk analysis: We identify your weak points.

• Tailored advice: We help you prepare alternative planning scenarios.

• Monitoring & updates: We keep you informed about policy changes and their impact.

At Akomar, we closely monitor these developments. Our goal is to ensure you’re ready for what’s coming, with solutions that protect your logistics operations. That way, you stay in control — even when the rules suddenly change.