Customs declarant

What does a Customs Declarant do? – Tasks and work environment

A Customs Declarant is responsible for handling and administering customs documentation during import and export of goods. Tasks include preparing customs declarations, inspecting goods and delivery documents, and ensuring all information complies with current customs laws. Customs Declarants often collaborate with transport companies, freight forwarders, and authorities to facilitate smooth cross-border goods flow. The work environment is usually office-based but can also involve contact with warehouse staff and inspecting goods at customs stations. The pace is often high, and the profession requires great accuracy and the ability to meet deadlines and handle complex regulations.

Salary development over time

The salary of a Customs Declarant has shown a steady and clear upward trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 37,100 SEK per month, rising to 39 000 SEK in 2023 and further to 40 200 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of about 8.4% over three years. The salary increase can be explained by increased complexity in customs handling, growing international trade, and a greater need for specialized skills in customs regulations. The demand for qualified Customs Declarants has remained relatively stable, contributing to salary growth in line with increased responsibility and higher education and digital skills requirements. Women's salaries in the profession constitute 94% of men's, reflecting a slight gender gap that has decreased somewhat over time.

Customs Declarant salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 40 200 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 42,400 SEK/month (male, public sector, at least 3 years post-secondary education)
• Lowest salary: 37,400 SEK/month (female, private sector, 3-year high school education)
• Hourly wage (average): 242 SEK/hour
• Gender pay gap: Women earn 94% of men's salary (men: 40 900 SEK, women: 38 400 SEK)

Education and qualifications

To work as a Customs Declarant, a high school education with a focus on economics, administration, or trade is usually required, but many employers prefer candidates with post-secondary education in logistics or international trade. Practical experience from the transport industry or freight forwarding is advantageous, and many supplement their skills with courses in customs handling and international legislation. Digital skills and good command of English are often necessary to meet industry requirements.

• High school education: Economics, trade, or administration (3 years)
• Post-secondary studies: Logistics, international trade, or relevant YH-education (2–3 years)
• Certification courses: Courses in customs handling, freight forwarding, or import/export
• Internship: Internship or traineeship in freight forwarding, transportation, or customs services
• Digital competence: Good knowledge of business systems and digital customs tools

Common benefits and compensation

Customs Declarants are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, subsidized lunches, occupational pensions, and opportunities for skills development through internal and external courses. Flexitime and remote work options are available, especially with larger employers in the public sector. Other common compensations include overtime pay for irregular hours and sometimes bonuses linked to performance or efficiency.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a Customs Declarant is considered moderate, with a recruitment situation characterized by balance according to the Swedish Public Employment Service forecasts. The number of job openings in the profession is stable at around 412, indicating that demand is relatively steady. Major challenges include rapidly changing legislation and increased digitalization requirements, which demand continuous skills development. Workload can sometimes be high, especially during changes in trade agreements or large logistics flows. The ability to quickly adapt to new routines and regulations is crucial for success in the profession.

Tips for aspiring Customs Declarants

To succeed as a Customs Declarant, it is beneficial to have analytical skills and attention to detail, as the work requires that all details in customs documentation are accurate. A communicative personality facilitates cooperation with colleagues, clients, and authorities, and can make problem-solving easier. Gaining practical experience in freight forwarding or logistics early on, through internships or part-time jobs, provides a good understanding of industry processes. Being flexible and adaptable helps when regulations and routines change rapidly. Digital competence is a significant asset, so staying updated on digital tools and business systems is a good way to strengthen your profile. A positive attitude towards continuous learning is also important, as the industry evolves with new legislation and technology.

Key facts about Customs Declarants

• Education level: High school diploma or post-secondary education in logistics/trade
• Work environment: Office-based, often with international contacts
• Demand: 412 job openings within the profession (May 2024)
• Gender distribution: Women earn 94% of men's salary
• Future prospects: Moderate opportunities, unchanged demand over 5 years

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years in the profession, opportunities often arise to advance to roles such as customs specialist, team leader, or freight forwarder responsible for larger client accounts. Some choose to specialize in international trade or customs law, while others move into project management within logistics. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service forecasts for transportation managers and coordinators, where Customs Declarants belong, the labor market is balanced with moderate opportunities and unchanged demand over five years. Continued digitalization and increasing international trade are expected to maintain demand for skills in the field, especially for those with updated education and good language skills.

Frequently asked questions about Customs Declarants

• What does a Customs Declarant earn?
  - The average salary for a Customs Declarant is 40 200 SEK per month, with an hourly wage of approximately 242 SEK.
• What education is required to become a Customs Declarant?
  - Usually, a high school education with a focus on economics, trade, or logistics, often supplemented with courses in customs and freight forwarding.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 94% of what men do in the profession.
• What is the job market like for Customs Declarants?
  - The job market is balanced with moderate employment opportunities and approximately 412 job openings within the profession.
• What are the main challenges in the profession?
  - The main challenges include changing customs regulations, digitalization, and high work pace during busy periods.
• What career opportunities exist after a few years as a Customs Declarant?
  - Opportunities include advancing to customs specialist, team leader, or working on larger projects within logistics and international trade.