Customs officer

What does a Customs Officer do? – Tasks and Work Environment

A Customs Officer plays a central role in international trade and transportation by handling customs formalities and ensuring that goods can cross borders according to current regulations. Tasks include checking documentation, declaring goods, assessing fees, and coordinating with authorities and logistics companies. Much of the work occurs in administrative environments, but inspections and contact with drivers or transporters on-site also take place. Precision, a structured approach, and a good understanding of regulations are crucial for success in the role. The work environment is often characterized by a fast pace and demands the ability to handle changes and unexpected situations quickly.

Salary development over time

The salary for a Customs Officer has shown stable and positive growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 37,100 SEK, increasing to 39 000 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has risen further to 40 200 SEK, representing an increase of approximately 8.4% over the period. This trend reflects an increased demand for specialized knowledge in customs handling and greater requirements for regulatory competence and digitalization in the industry. Salary increases can also be linked to a growing need for efficient logistics and international trade, where the role of the Customs Officer has become more complex and valued. Overall, salaries have followed industry trends and the labor market’s need for qualified personnel.

Customs Officer salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 40 200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 37,400 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 42,400 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 242 SEK
• Men (average): 40 900 SEK
• Women (average): 38 400 SEK
• Women earn: 94% of what men do
• Regional differences: Vary depending on location and sector

Education and qualifications

To work as a Customs Officer, a high school education focusing on economics, transportation, or logistics is usually required. Many employers also value post-secondary studies in customs handling, international trade, or similar fields. Practical experience or trainee programs are common and advantageous, especially for those aiming to work with more advanced tasks or in the public sector. Certifications and courses in customs regulations and digital systems are also valuable.

• High school education: Economics, transportation, or logistics (3 years)
• Post-secondary education: YH education or university (2–3 years), often with a focus on customs handling
• Certifications: Courses in customs handling, international trade, and digital customs systems
• Internship/Trainee: Common for new hires
• Prerequisites: Good Swedish and English skills, analytical ability

Common benefits and compensations

Customs Officers are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, subsidized meals, extra vacation days, and pension contributions. In the public sector, opportunities for skills development and further education are common, while private employers sometimes offer bonus programs and flexible working hours.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a Customs Officer is assessed as moderate on the Swedish labor market, with about 412 job openings in the profession. Challenges include staying updated on changing laws and international trade regulations, working under time pressure, and handling complex cases. Digitalization and automation are transforming job tasks, which requires flexibility and a willingness to develop new skills. Since the profession often involves cooperation across departments and with external parties, good communication skills are also necessary.

Tips for those wishing to become a Customs Officer

To succeed as a Customs Officer, it’s good to have an eye for detail and an analytical mindset, as tasks often require careful review of documents and regulations. Developing strong communication skills facilitates cooperation with colleagues and external actors, especially since many cases require coordination. Flexibility and resilience help manage periods of high workload and rapid changes in regulations or workflows. An interest in international issues and logistics provides an extra advantage, as does a willingness to continually update knowledge in digital systems and customs regulations. Being service-minded and solution-oriented is appreciated by both employers and clients. Finally, integrity and a sense of responsibility are important, as the work often involves handling sensitive information and large values.

Key facts about Customs Officers

• Education level: High school education or post-secondary YH/university
• Work environment: Office-based with elements of fieldwork
• Job openings: 412 in the profession
• Demand: Moderate, forecast unchanged over 5 years
• Special skills: Customs regulations, international trade, digital systems

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a Customs Officer, opportunities open up for more qualified roles such as customs specialist, transport manager, or coordinator within larger logistics companies. It is also common to move into managerial positions, project management, or specialization in international trade. The employment agency’s prognosis indicates that job opportunities are moderate and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. Digitalization and increased compliance requirements are expected to influence skill needs, but the profession remains central within logistics and trade.

Frequently asked questions about Customs Officers

• What does a Customs Officer earn?
  - A Customs Officer has an average salary of 40 200 SEK per month.
• How do salary differences between men and women look?
  - Men earn on average 40 900 SEK and women 38 400 SEK, which means women earn approximately 94% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a Customs Officer?
  - High school education with a focus on economics, logistics, or transportation is most common, but post-secondary studies are advantageous.
• What does the job market look like for Customs Officers?
  - There are about 412 job openings, and demand is assessed as moderate over five years.
• What benefits are usually offered?
  - Common benefits include wellness allowances, extra vacation days, pension contributions, and opportunities for skill development.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Yes, salaries can vary depending on location and sector.
• What career opportunities are available after a few years?
  - Opportunities include becoming a customs specialist, transport manager, or taking on managerial roles within logistics and trade.