Customs specialist

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

A customs specialist works to ensure that goods passing through Sweden's borders comply with applicable customs laws and international trade regulations. Tasks include reviewing import and export documents, classifying goods, advising companies on customs rules, and participating in inspections and investigations of suspected customs violations. The work is often carried out in close cooperation with other authorities such as the Swedish Tax Agency and the Police, as well as in contact with the business sector and international actors. The work environment is characterized by a fast pace and high responsibility, where accuracy and legal certainty are crucial. The position can be based either in an office or at customs stations and ports.

Salary Development Over Time

Over the past three years, salaries for customs specialists have shown a steady and positive trend. In 2022, the average monthly salary was 38,300 SEK, increasing to 38 800 SEK in 2023 – a rise of about 1.3%. Between 2023 and 2024, there was a clear salary increase to 41,000 SEK, corresponding to an increase of just over 5%. The salary increases can partly be explained by increased demand for specialized skills in customs, expanded international trade, and a greater focus on security issues. The overall trend indicates that the profession is becoming increasingly valued, especially as legislation and regulations become more complex.

Customs Specialist Salary – Complete Overview

• Average salary: 41,000 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 38,500 SEK/month (female, public sector, post-secondary education shorter than 3 years)
• Highest salary: 46,100 SEK/month (male, private sector, upper secondary education up to 2 years)
• Hourly wage (average): 246 SEK
• Women earn: 39 600 SEK (94% of men's salary)
• Men earn: 42 000 SEK
• Regional differences: No detailed statistics available

Education and Qualifications

The path to becoming a customs specialist usually involves post-secondary education in law, economics, logistics, or international trade. Many employers, especially within the public sector, also require internal training and a period of internship or trainee employment. In addition to formal education, experience in customs, freight forwarding, or similar fields, as well as good knowledge of Swedish and English, are valued.

• Post-secondary education: 2–4 years in law, economics, logistics, or international trade
• Internal training: Mandatory for employment at the Swedish Customs
• Certifications: Courses in customs handling and international trade can be advantageous
• Internship: Often required or recommended
• Prerequisites: High school diploma and good language skills

Common Benefits and Compensation

It is common for customs specialists to be offered benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, and paid further training. Other benefits may include flexible working hours, remote work options, and extra vacation days. In some cases, subsidized lunches or health and well-being support are also provided.

Competition and Challenges

The competition for positions as a customs specialist can vary depending on the labor market situation and geographical area, but demand is generally stable thanks to increasing international trade and more complex regulations. Challenges include staying updated on constantly changing laws and international agreements, managing a high work pace, and sometimes tight deadlines. New employees may find the onboarding process demanding, as it takes time to familiarize oneself with extensive regulations and the technical systems used in the profession. The lack of detailed statistics makes it difficult to precisely assess the competitive landscape, but the number of job openings indicates continued good prospects.

Tips for Aspiring Customs Specialists

To succeed as a customs specialist, it is good to combine analytical skills with accuracy and a high degree of integrity. The first step is to pursue education in law, economics, or logistics, while also developing language skills, especially in English. Being communicative and cooperative is a big advantage, as the profession involves many contacts both internally and externally. Practical experience, such as through trainee programs or internships in customs or freight forwarding, strengthens your position in the job market. The ability to quickly understand new regulations and digital systems is also central, as well as an interest in international issues and societal development. Finally, patience and a willingness to continuously update oneself are important, as laws and working methods evolve over time.

Key Facts about a Customs Specialist

• Education level: Post-secondary education (2–4 years) and internal training
• Work environment: Offices, customs stations, and ports with high tempo
• Typical employment: Full-time, often daytime but sometimes shifts
• Job openings within the profession: 191 positions (May 2024)
• Gender distribution: Even, but women have slightly lower average salaries

Career Paths and Future Outlook

After 3–5 years of experience, customs specialists can advance to roles such as team leader, senior specialist, or trainer in customs handling. Other career options include working as investigators, advisors in international trade, or roles within international organizations and authorities. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast, it is difficult to make an exact assessment of future prospects due to limited data, but the stable demand for expertise in customs and security, as well as the number of job vacancies, indicates continued good opportunities. The profession is influenced by digitalization and globalization, which means individuals with IT or language skills may have extra good chances for advancement.

Frequently Asked Questions about Customs Specialist

• What does a Customs Specialist earn?
  - A customs specialist has an average monthly salary of 41,000 SEK, with variation depending on experience, gender, and sector.
• How does one become a Customs Specialist?
  - The common path is post-secondary education in law, economics, or logistics, followed by internal training at the Swedish Customs.
• Are there differences between men's and women's salaries?
  - Yes, women earn on average 39 600 SEK, which corresponds to 94% of men's salary, which is 42 000 SEK.
• What is the job market like for Customs Specialists?
  - There are 191 job openings in the profession, and demand is considered stable.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Attention to detail, integrity, analytical skills, and good communication skills are essential qualities for the profession.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for a Customs Specialist?
  - The highest salary is 46,100 SEK (male, private sector), and the lowest is 38,500 SEK (female, public sector).
• Is good language proficiency required?
  - Yes, Swedish and English are often required, and additional languages are advantageous.