As a customs forwarder, you know how crucial accurate record-keeping is. Since September 2024, the Dutch customs service no longer provides the Overzicht Gedane Aangiften (OGA, or Summary of Submitted Declarations), making it harder to compare your records with those of customs. Fortunately, the customs MAB specification fills this gap. In this post, we explain what the customs MAB specification is, why it’s so valuable, and how Gateway helps you make the most of it.

Why the customs MAB specification was introduced

Until September 2024, customs sent a monthly OGA, a summary of all your declarations as recorded in their system. This was a handy tool to verify whether your records matched those of customs, quickly identifying errors in declaration systems like the old AGS. But with the OGA discontinued, how do you maintain control over your declarations?

What is the customs MAB specification about?

Customs has addressed this information gap with the customs MAB specification, a detailed report included with the Mededeling Afloop Betalingstermijn (MAB, or Payment Term Notification). This specification is mandatory for anyone with a deferred payment licence and fills the void left by the OGA.

What’s included in the customs MAB specification?

The customs MAB specification is a monthly report you receive alongside the MAB notification. It provides a clear overview of your declarations and associated costs, including:

• Declarant’s name: your company name or that of your client.
• Period: the month the report covers, e.g., “October 2025”.
• Declaration creation date: when the declaration was submitted.
• Declaration number: a unique ID for each declaration.
• Amount of import duties owed: the exact amount of duties and VAT, if applicable.
• Declaration description: details about the goods, such as HS codes and tariffs.

This cost overview is delivered digitally via the customs portal. It replaces the OGA but focuses specifically on payment-related declarations, making it ideal for sharing with clients to show exactly which costs you’ve covered on their behalf.

How does the MAB differ from the OGA?

The OGA was broader in scope, while the customs MAB specification focuses on payments. It helps you comply with the Union Customs Code (UCC), Article 15, which mandates accurate reporting.

Why it is important to use the customs MAB specification

The customs MAB specification offers three major benefits that enhance your client relationships and strengthen your operations:

1. Supports error-free record-keeping: without the OGA, there’s a risk of discrepancies between your system and customs’ records. The MAB specification allows you to check monthly whether everything aligns. Spot a difference in declaration number or amount? You can correct it immediately, avoiding fines or audits. This saves you time and money.
2. Transparency for your clients: clients want clarity on what they’re paying for. With the MAB’s cost overview, you can show them exactly which import duties and costs you’ve advanced. This builds trust and prevents disputes. If a client asks, “How do I prove my customs costs?” you can simply share the MAB report.
3. Compliance and efficiency: With stricter regulations, such as the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) coming fully into effect in 2026, accurate record-keeping is critical. The Customs MAB specification keeps you compliant and integrates seamlessly with systems like the DMS (Customs Declarations Management System).

It’s a tool for efficiency, transparency, and compliance.

How Gateway helps with the customs MAB

Using the MAB specification in Gateway is straightforward. It’s automatically processed in our system. Simply upload the XML file from customs via the menu, and Gateway does the rest: it compares your declarations with customs’ data and generates a PDF report highlighting any discrepancies. You’ll see whether the amounts per document in Gateway match the customs XML.

This functionality streamlines your record-keeping, helps prevent errors, and provides your clients with a professional cost overview. In short, it’s a simple process with significant benefits.

Make the most of it!

The customs MAB specification is more than just a replacement for the OGA. It’s a tool for efficiency, transparency, and compliance. By embracing the MAB specification, you strengthen client relationships and keep your records in order. Gateway ensures this process runs smoothly. Together, we keep your customs processes sharp and future-proof!

Frequently asked questions about the customs MAB specification

• What exactly is the customs MAB specification?
  A monthly report included with the MAB notification, detailing your declarations and costs.
• How are costs calculated in the MAB?
  The cost overview is based on import duties, VAT, and tariffs from your declarations. Gateway calculates it automatically.
• Is the MAB mandatory?
  It’s mandatory for deferred payment licences. Otherwise, the specification is highly recommended for verification purposes.
• What if there are discrepancies?
  Contact the Customs Service.
• Want to know more about the MAB specification?
  The trade association for logistics Evofenedex provides background information on it. You can also read the Dutch Customs service message about its introduction (both in Dutch).