How DB Schenker redefined customs efficiency with AI
The challenge: Complexity without consistency
Even in highly structured organisations like DB Schenker, customs processes remained labour-intensive, especially when dealing with scanned files and non-standard layouts. Manual preparation for multi-line, high-volume cases could take hours or even a full working day.
Traditional AI tools offered limited help, relying heavily on templates or model training. In reality, every document looked different, and the benefits were slow to realise.
The solution: AI-powered automation with a human touch
DB Schenker partnered with Customaite to implement a digital workflow that connects seamlessly with their internal systems. Customaite prepares the declaration data automatically, and thanks to a human-in-the-loop approach, declarants remain in full control.
The result is a powerful blend of speed, accuracy and compliance.
Customaite enables our employees to work more efficiently, giving them time to focus on the compliance tasks that matter most.
Chris Clayton - Head of Business Improvement – Customs Europe
The impact
By introducing Customaite into their customs workflow, DB Schenker was able to reduce the preparation time for complex, multi-line declarations from several hours to as little as 20 to 30 minutes, a time saving of up to 90% in specific cases.
These gains extended far beyond operational speed. By freeing up time and reducing manual workload, declarants were able to shift focus toward high-value compliance activities. This not only improved the accuracy and consistency of declarations but also strengthened the company’s ability to scale without increasing team size.
With more capacity and faster turnaround times, DB Schenker could respond more flexibly to customer needs, manage peak periods more efficiently, and maintain a consistently high level of service, even under pressure.
Why it worked
One of the key reasons for the project’s success was the immediate usability of the Customaite platform. Unlike AI tools that require long training periods or complex onboarding, Customaite offered a clean, intuitive interface and out-of-the-box accuracy, making adoption fast and frictionless.
Beyond the technology itself, the collaboration between both teams was a defining factor. DB Schenker praised Customaite’s responsiveness, deep domain expertise in customs, and their ability to align the platform closely with real operational needs.
This combination of smart tooling and proactive partnership enabled DB Schenker to unlock results quickly, and laid the foundation for future innovation in their customs operations.
Discover how DB Schenker automated and improved their customs processes
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leveraged AI with Customaite to automate customs processes, boosting speed, accuracy, and compliance.
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