Aramex South Africa is proud to announce that it has officially achieved Level 1 Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) certification, effective 1 April 2025. This recognition, granted by the South African Revenue Service (SARS), reaffirms our ongoing commitment to regulatory compliance, operational excellence, and seamless cross-border trade.
As a certified AEO partner, Aramex South Africa is now positioned as a trusted, low-risk operator within the global supply chain distinction that strengthens our ability to offer faster, more secure, and more efficient logistics services.
What AEO Certification Means
The AEO program is an internationally recognized initiative that promotes secure, compliant, and transparent trade practices. Earning Level 1 certification required a rigorous audit of Aramex South Africa’s customs procedures, security protocols, financial stability, and risk management systems. This accomplishment highlights our alignment with global best practices in customs simplification and secure trade.
How Aramex South Africa Benefits from AEO Certification
With AEO status, Aramex South Africa benefits from several critical operational enhancements. Our shipments are now eligible for faster customs clearance and receive priority treatment during both documentary and physical inspections. The risk of shipments being stopped is much lower, resulting in fewer delays and more predictable delivery timelines, boosting the overall efficiency of our logistics chain. Furthermore, drawbacks and refunds are processed much faster.
In addition, Aramex South Africa can now request inspections on embargoed goods—regardless of the commodity—allowing us to handle sensitive or high-security shipments more effectively if it passes the various SARS requirements.
We also have access to a dedicated SARS customs relationship manager, providing direct communication for quicker resolution of complex issues or regulatory queries. With SARS actively working to expand the AEO program to include SMMEs and e-commerce traders, Aramex South Africa is well-positioned to support the next wave of digital trade and entrepreneurial growth.
Delivering Value to Our Customers
For Aramex South Africa customers, the benefits of AEO certification are immediate and tangible. Streamlined customs processes lead to faster delivery times and reduced risk of delay, which is especially critical for time-sensitive, high-value, or regulated goods. Our lower inspection profile contributes to greater logistics efficiency, while our robust performance tracking—measuring preclearance effectiveness and transit times daily and monthly—ensures that we continue to optimise service levels.
Perhaps most importantly, AEO status deepens the trust our clients can place in our services. It signals to partners, regulators, and markets alike. Aramex South Africa operates with transparency, integrity, and a proactive approach to compliance in global logistics.
Looking Ahead
As part of our strategic vision, Aramex South Africa is exploring the potential transition to Level 2 AEO certification, which could unlock even more benefits in areas such as international recognition, advanced security standards, and deeper integration with global customs systems.
Conclusion
The attainment of Level 1 AEO certification is more than a milestone—it’s a strategic advancement that positions Aramex South Africa to lead in a rapidly evolving global logistics landscape. It enhances our ability to deliver faster, more reliable services, reinforces our role as a trusted trade partner, and equips us to support growing businesses in an increasingly interconnected world.
We remain committed to pushing the boundaries of logistics performance and compliance, helping our customers succeed with confidence and agility across borders.
