Customs declaration officer

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

A Customs Declaration Officer handles, reviews, and manages customs documentation during import and export of goods. The role involves close contact with companies, freight forwarders, and authorities to ensure all goods are declared correctly according to current customs regulations. Tasks include checking commodity codes, customs duties, origin certificates, and other necessary documents. The environment is often office-based, where digital systems and precise documentation are central to daily work. The role requires high accuracy, good communication skills, and continuous updates on regulations and legal changes.

Salary development over time

The salary for Customs Declaration Officers has shown steady but clearly positive growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 37,100 SEK, which increased to 39 000 SEK in 2023 and further to 40 200 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of nearly 8.4% over three years, reflecting increased demand for qualified officers in line with growing international trade and stricter regulations. Salaries have risen slightly faster than the average for administrative professions, which can be explained by more extensive skill requirements. Digitalization has also increased the need for specialized knowledge, positively impacting wages. At the same time, the salary range is relatively compressed, indicating a uniform salary structure within the profession.

Customs Declaration Officer Salary – Complete Overview

• Average salary: 40 200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 37,400 SEK/month (woman, private sector, high school education)
• Highest salary: 42,400 SEK/month (man, public sector, postgraduate education)
• Hourly wage: 242 SEK
• Women's average salary: 38 400 SEK (94% of men's salary)
• Men's average salary: 40 900 SEK
• Regional differences: Salaries may vary depending on location and sector, but variation is generally small.

Education and Qualifications

To work as a Customs Declaration Officer, at least a high school diploma is typically required, preferably with a focus on economics, trade, or logistics. Many employers view postgraduate studies in customs, logistics, or international trade positively, and it is common to supplement with specialized courses or certifications. Practical experience from similar administrative roles or the logistics industry is often advantageous and can be decisive for employment.

• High school diploma: Business or economics program (3 years)
• Post-secondary education: YH education in customs, logistics, or international trade (1–2 years)
• Certifications: Customs handling, freight forwarding, or international trade
• Internship/Trainee: Meritorious for applications
• Prerequisites: Good computer skills and proficiency in Swedish/English, spoken and written
• Tips for choosing: Combine education with internships to increase employability

Common Benefits and Compensation

Customs Declaration Officers are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, occupational pension, flexitime, and remote work options. Some employers also provide professional development, extra vacation days, and subsidized lunches. Compensation packages may differ slightly between private and public sectors, but basic benefits are common regardless of employer.

Competition and Challenges

The competition for positions as a Customs Declaration Officer is considered balanced, with medium-sized employment opportunities according to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts. The industry is affected by changes in international trade and regulations, requiring officers to stay continuously updated. Digitalization and automation create new challenges, increasing the demand for system understanding and analytical skills. Flexibility and adaptability to new ways of working are important to meet future needs. The number of available jobs is stable, but competition can be tougher in larger urban areas where more candidates seek the same positions.

Tips for those aspiring to become a Customs Declaration Officer

To succeed as a Customs Declaration Officer, it is good to combine accuracy with a willingness to learn new regulations and routines. Analytical skills are crucial for interpreting and applying customs rules correctly, while communication skills facilitate collaboration with colleagues and external partners. Being resilient to stress is an advantage during time-critical declarations and rapid workload changes. It is also wise to actively seek internships and supplementary education in logistics or customs handling. A structured work approach and good computer skills make it easier to manage the digital tools used daily. Finally, an interest in international trade and openness to change are important qualities that support a long and developing career.

Key facts about Customs Declaration Officers

• Average salary: 40 200 SEK/month
• Lowest/highest salary: 37,400–42,400 SEK/month
• Education level: High school or post-secondary education
• Work environment: Office-based, digital
• Available jobs: 412 within the profession

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a Customs Declaration Officer can advance to more specialized roles, such as customs specialist, team leader, or logistics coordinator. There are also opportunities to work in training related to customs issues or to move into consultancy. The Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast for transport managers and coordinators, which include this profession, indicates that demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, with a balanced recruitment situation. Digital development and increased requirements for regulatory expertise may raise qualification demands over time but also open new career paths within customs and logistics.

Common questions about Customs Declaration Officers

• What does a Customs Declaration Officer earn?
  - The average salary is 40 200 SEK per month, with a range between 37,400 and 42,400 SEK depending on experience and education.
• What education is required to become a Customs Declaration Officer?
  - At least a high school diploma, preferably supplemented with YH education or courses in customs, logistics, or international trade.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 38 400 SEK while men earn 40 900 SEK, which corresponds to 94% of men's salaries.
• What is the job market like for Customs Declaration Officers?
  - The job market is stable with 412 available positions and moderate employment opportunities.
• What personal qualities are important in this profession?
  - Accuracy, analytical skills, resilience to stress, and good communication skills are essential qualities.
• What does career development look like?
  - After a few years, you can advance to specialist roles, team leader, or further education in logistics and customs management.
• What is the work environment like for a Customs Declaration Officer?
  - The work is primarily office-based and digital, often with contact both nationally and internationally.