AEO
Global framework for low-risk customs trade facilitation
EN 1090
EU standard for execution of steel and aluminium structures
Quick Verdict
AEO provides voluntary customs facilitation for global traders via security certification, while EN 1090 mandates CE marking for EU structural fabricators through FPC and execution controls. Companies adopt AEO for faster clearance; EN 1090 for legal market access.
AEO
Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) status
Key Features
- Low-risk customs certification for priority clearance
- 13 SAQ criteria spanning compliance to security
- Mutual Recognition Agreements for cross-border benefits
- Risk-based validation with site inspections
- Continuous internal audits and monitoring
EN 1090
EN 1090: Execution of steel and aluminium structures
Key Features
- Factory Production Control (FPC) certification required
- Risk-based Execution Classes EXC1-EXC4 scaling
- CE marking and Declaration of Performance mandatory
- Welding quality via ISO 3834 integration
- Material traceability and NDT inspection regimes
Detailed Analysis
A comprehensive look at the specific requirements, scope, and impact of each standard.
AEO Details
What It Is
Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) is a voluntary certification under the WCO SAFE Framework, recognizing low-risk businesses in international trade. It fosters partnerships between customs and operators for secure, facilitated global trade via risk-based security and compliance standards.
Key Components
- Four pillars: customs compliance, records/internal controls, financial solvency, supply chain security.
- 13 SAQ criteria (A-M) covering declarations, training, premises/personnel security, partners, crisis management.
- Built on SAFE Framework Pillar 2; EU UCC variants (AEOC/AEOS).
- Risk-based certification with validation and revalidation.
Why Organizations Use It
- Reduces inspections, clearance times, costs (e.g., $500-1000/container savings).
- Enables MRAs for cross-border priority.
- Enhances reputation, tender eligibility, supply chain resilience.
- No legal mandate but strategic for trade efficiency.
Implementation Overview
Gap analysis, SAQ completion, process/IT integration, training, mock audits. Applies to supply chain actors globally; 6-12 months typical. Requires continuous monitoring, internal audits for sustained status.
EN 1090 Details
What It Is
EN 1090 is the European harmonized standards family (EN 1090-1, -2, -3) governing execution and conformity assessment of structural steel and aluminium components/kits for construction. Under the EU Construction Products Regulation (CPR), it enables CE marking. Its risk-based methodology uses Execution Classes (EXC1-4) to scale requirements by consequence, service, and production categories.
Key Components
- **EN 1090-1FPC certification, DoP, AVCP systems.
- **EN 1090-2/-3Technical rules for materials, welding, tolerances, corrosion, inspection/NDT.
- Built on ISO 3834 welding quality; emphasizes traceability.
- **CertificationNotified Body initial audit and surveillance.
Why Organizations Use It
- Mandatory for EU/EEA market access.
- Mitigates liability, ensures consistent quality.
- Enables high-risk projects, boosts tenders/competitiveness.
- Builds stakeholder trust via certified FPC.
Implementation Overview
- Phased: gap analysis, FPC development, welding quals, NB certification.
- Targets fabricators; suits medium-large firms.
- 6-12 months typical, with ongoing surveillance. (178 words)
Key Differences
| Aspect | AEO | EN 1090 |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | Supply chain security & customs compliance | Steel/aluminium structural fabrication & conformity |
| Industry | Global trade, logistics, all supply chain actors | EU construction, steel/aluminium fabricators |
| Nature | Voluntary customs partnership certification | Mandatory harmonized standard for CE marking |
| Testing | Risk-based site validation & re-validation | FPC certification, ITT/ITC, NB surveillance audits |
| Penalties | Status suspension/revocation, lost benefits | Market exclusion, fines, legal liability |
Scope
Industry
Nature
Testing
Penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about AEO and EN 1090
AEO FAQ
EN 1090 FAQ
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