Level 4 Customs Practitioner Award

Students must have completed the L3 Customs Practitioner Award in order to complete the L4 course. 

The course is offered under SKILL UP, you must meet the following eligibility criteria to join the course: 

• over 18 years of age;
• eligible to work in Northern Ireland; 
• settled’ in Northern Ireland, and has been ordinarily resident in the UK for at least three years;
• or is a person who has indefinite leave to enter or remain in the UK.

Students are required to complete two 3000-word written assessments.

The first assessment will be based on the these three units of learning: Customs Procedures and Documentation How to Classify Your Goods Rules of Origin.

The second assessment will be based on these three units: Export Licensing Controls Excise Duties and Procedures Trading with the EU.

Successful completion of the Level 4 Customs Practitioner Award will open up several career paths and provide opportunities for further study:

Further Study

Learners who complete the Level 4 Customs Practitioner Award may consider pursuing higher-level qualifications or certifications in international trade, customs law, or logistics management. This can lead to advanced qualifications in trade compliance or supply chain management.

Employment

This qualification is designed to provide the expertise necessary for individuals working or seeking employment in international trade, customs operations, or logistics. Potential career paths may include:

• Customs Compliance Officer: Ensure that all import and export procedures comply with international trade laws and regulations.
• International Trade Consultant: Advise businesses on import/export strategies, customs procedures, and international trade regulations.
• Customs Risk Manager: Identify and manage risks associated with customs compliance and international trade.
• Export/Import Manager: Oversee the operations related to the importing and exporting of goods across international borders.
• Logistics and Supply Chain Specialist: Manage the flow of goods, ensuring that customs processes are followed and risks are mitigated in global trade.

This qualification equips learners with the technical skills and knowledge required to effectively manage customs procedures, trade compliance, and risk in international trade. Key skills developed may include:

Technical Skills

• Understanding of customs procedures and documentation
• Ability to classify goods and understand rules of origin
• Knowledge of export licensing controls, excise duties, and trading with the EU
• Proficiency in managing customs risk and trade compliance
• Understanding of import/export regulations and international trade agreements

Employability Skills

• Problem-solving and critical thinking in managing customs and trade processes
• Attention to detail in managing compliance and trade documentation
• Effective communication skills for working with customs authorities and stakeholders
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines in international trade environments
• Leadership skills for overseeing customs operations and ensuring compliance across teams