Customs tax collector

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

A Customs Appraiser is responsible for classifying and valuing goods passing through the country's borders, which is essential for correct customs duties and taxes. The work includes reviewing documentation, applying international customs regulations, and advising companies and individuals on import and export matters. Customs Appraisers often work closely with freight forwarders, transport companies, and other authorities, and must stay updated on legislation and trade agreements. The work environment is primarily office-based but may sometimes involve site visits at customs stations or warehouses.

Salary Development Over Time

Customs Appraisers have experienced stable and positive salary growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 37,100 SEK per month, increasing to 37,900 SEK in 2023 – a rise of approximately 2.2%. In 2024, the average salary has increased further and now stands at 41 100 SEK, representing a growth of over 8.4% compared to the previous year. This trend reflects an increasing demand for qualified skills in customs handling and a generally positive salary development within the group of freight forwarders and transport brokers. Factors influencing salary development include changing trade patterns, increased demands for regulatory knowledge, and growing complexity in international trade. Gender pay gaps persist, although both groups have seen salary increases.

Customs Appraiser Salary – Complete Overview

• Average Salary: 41 100 SEK/month
• Lowest Salary: 37,900 SEK/month
• Highest Salary: 50,000 SEK/month
• Hourly Wage (average): 247 SEK
• Women's Average Salary: 38900 SEK/month (90% of men's salary)
• Men's Average Salary: 43 000 SEK/month
• Regional Differences: Limited data available, but variations may occur depending on workplace and region.

Education and Qualifications

To work as a Customs Appraiser, a post-secondary education in customs, logistics, economics, or law is usually required. Many employers also value specific courses in international trade and regulations, as well as experience in customs handling or freight forwarding. Internships or trainee programs can serve as entry points into the profession, and ongoing further education is common to stay updated with changing laws and regulations.

• Post-secondary education: 2–3 years in logistics, customs, or economics
• Specialized courses: International trade, customs, and export regulations
• Internship/Trainee: Often required or advantageous
• Prerequisites: Good knowledge of Swedish and English, analytical skills
• Certifications: Possibility to obtain certification in customs handling through industry organizations

Common Benefits and Compensation

Customs Appraisers often have access to benefits such as wellness allowances, flexitime, and the possibility of remote work. Occupational pensions, skills development, and subsidized lunches are also common within the profession. Additional compensation may be provided for unsociable hours or special projects.

Competition and Challenges

The competition for positions as a Customs Appraiser can vary depending on the region and employer, but generally, there is moderate demand for the profession. Challenges include rapidly changing regulations, increased demands for digital skills, and the need to interpret complex international trade agreements. Additionally, the role requires high precision and accuracy to avoid incorrect customs decisions, placing high demands on education and experience. Expertise in both Swedish and international regulations is crucial for success in the profession.

Tips for Aspiring Customs Appraisers

To succeed as a Customs Appraiser, it is beneficial to combine analytical skills with a structured work approach and an interest in international trade. Deepening knowledge of current customs regulations and participating in relevant courses provide a competitive edge in recruitment. Precision is essential, as small mistakes can have significant consequences for companies and authorities. Good communication skills facilitate collaboration with colleagues and external partners, while the ability to quickly understand new regulations and technical systems makes the role more manageable. Demonstrating commitment to continuing education and digital development is also an advantage. Finally, initiative and problem-solving skills are highly valued by employers in the field.

Key Facts about Customs Appraisers

• Average Salary: 41 100 SEK/month
• Salary Range: 37,900–50,000 SEK/month
• Educational Level: Post-secondary education, often 2–3 years
• Work Environment: Office-based, sometimes site visits
• Job Openings in the Profession: 550

Career Paths and Future Outlook

After 3–5 years as a Customs Appraiser, there are opportunities to advance to more qualified roles such as specialist in customs regulations, team leader, or head of the customs department. Some choose to specialize further in international trade or logistics, while others move into consultancy roles or training new Customs Appraisers. The Employment Service does not provide an exact forecast for the profession due to limited data, but within the group of freight forwarders and transport brokers, 550 job openings were registered, indicating some demand. Those combining work experience with specialized knowledge in digital customs handling and international regulations have good prospects for development and new challenges.

Frequently Asked Questions about Customs Appraisers

• What does a Customs Appraiser earn?
  - A Customs Appraiser has an average salary of 41 100 SEK per month, with a range between 37,900 and 50,000 SEK depending on experience and employer.
• How to become a Customs Appraiser?
  - Post-secondary education in customs, logistics, economics, or law is required, often supplemented with specialized courses and internships.
• Are there differences between men's and women's salaries?
  - Yes, men earn an average of 43 000 SEK while women earn 38900 SEK, which means women earn approximately 90% of men's salaries.
• What are the duties of a Customs Appraiser?
  - Duties include classification of goods, application of customs regulations, advising, and document review during import and export processes.
• What are the future prospects?
  - The prognosis is uncertain according to the Employment Service, but there are 550 job openings in the profession.
• What level of education is required?
  - Usually, a post-secondary education of 2–3 years in a relevant field is required.
• What benefits are offered?
  - Common benefits include wellness allowances, flexitime, occupational pension, and opportunities for skills development.