Digital customs communication Your message exchange for fast customs clearance
Our solution for the ATLAS application ZELOS: a platform for the central exchange of documents, inquiries, and comments directly with customs.
The use of fax machines by German Customs is approaching its end. With the ATLAS application ZELOS, a platform has been created for the central exchange of documents, enquiries and statements. In future, all communication relating to ATLAS applications will take place exclusively via ZELOS in a fully digital and seamless manner, replacing email, telephone and fax.
ZELOS has been available for the ATLAS import procedure (ZB, SumA, ZL and AEGZ) since 2023. From 1 February 2028, its use will become mandatory under requirements set by ITZBund. Implementation for all other ATLAS applications is to follow gradually.
In this context, German Customs does not provide its own participant software.
Features
Features overview
Uncomplicated
Communication with customs has never been easier.
Direct
The exchange takes place directly with customs without any media discontinuity.
Automated
Store all necessary documents so that customs enquiries can be answered automatically by the system.
Comprehensive
We provide ZELOS functionality for all ATLAS applications as early as possible.
Functions
Functions
- With every customs declaration, there may be queries from customs or additional documents may be requested. Our ZELOS application is connected to the ATLAS application by customs, allowing you to handle all enquiries effortlessly.
- There is no longer a need for external e-mail programs or fax machines – everything is bundled in one application. Proactively send the documents for your customs declaration to customs, or reactively send the documents and statements requested by customs.
- Save even more time by storing the required documents in the software beforehand and transmitting them automatically.
- If you already process your customs declarations via FORMAT-IVEAS, the connection is available and ready for use in just a few steps.
Outlook
As soon as ZELOS becomes available for additional customs procedures, we will complete the relevant certifications. This enables us to ensure that your company can start using ZELOS for the respective message group at the earliest possible stage.
Technical
functions
- Specially developed BridgeConnect data transfer service for smooth connection to FORMAT-IVEAS
- Multiple file formats for transferring your documents: PDF, JPG, PNG
Workflow
Data exchange with customs via ZELOS
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Which other customs procedures will be migrated to ZELOS in future?
- Since 2023, German Customs has been gradually migrating individual customs procedures to ZELOS.
- In addition to the ATLAS applications already in use, the plan—following successful certification—is to migrate further procedures, such as the ATLAS export procedure and, where applicable, other message groups, to ZELOS.
- The aim is to handle all customs communication digitally and end‑to‑end, so that all relevant customs procedures are gradually integrated into the ZELOS system.
How does ZELOS integrate with existing software solutions?
- Integration is via the purpose‑built data transfer service “BridgeConnect”, which enables seamless, automated data exchange.
- For existing applications such as FORMAT‑IVEAS, the connection can be implemented in just a few steps, efficiently extending your existing business processes to include digital customs communication.
- By using standardised interfaces (e.g., XML interfaces), relevant data—such as customs declarations and associated documents—can be exchanged seamlessly between your software and ZELOS.
Which file formats are supported by ZELOS?
Documents can be submitted in PDF, PNG or JPG format.
What are the technical requirements for using ZELOS?
- A connection to FORMAT‑IVEAS via the bespoke data‑transfer service “BridgeConnect”, which ensures seamless data exchange.
- The ability to use various file formats (PDF, JPG, PNG) to transfer documents.
- A stable internet connection, as ZELOS is designed as a digital communication tool for the end‑to‑end transmission of documents, enquiries and statements.
- Compliance with the security and certification requirements stipulated by the German customs authorities — this may include additional IT security measures or digital certificates to ensure the secure exchange of information.
When will ZELOS become mandatory?
ZELOS has been available for the ATLAS import procedure (ZB, SumA, ZL and AEGZ) since 2023. From 1 February 2028, its use will become mandatory under requirements set by ITZBund.
Implementation for all other ATLAS applications is to follow gradually.
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