EPR and AEO Consulting Services by Awat Logistics
In a world of rising regulatory scrutiny and environmental accountability, Indian businesses must adapt to a landscape where compliance is no longer optional—it’s strategic. Two major compliance domains in India today are Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) and Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) certification. These programs, though distinct, are crucial for improving environmental responsibility and trade facilitation.
Awat Logistics provides specialized EPR and AEO consulting services, guiding companies through registration, documentation, compliance reporting, and certification, helping you stay ahead of the curve while minimizing operational risks.
🔁 What is Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)?
EPR (Extended Producer Responsibility) is an environmental policy under which the producer of products is responsible for the end-of-life collection, recycling, and disposal of products and packaging introduced into the market.
In India, EPR is mandatory for:
- Plastic Waste Management (PWM)
- E-Waste Management (batteries, electronics)
- Battery Waste Management Rules, 2022
- Tyre and hazardous waste
EPR is governed by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC).
📋 Who Needs EPR Compliance?
- Manufacturers and Importers of products in plastic packaging
- Brand Owners who sell products under their label
- Producers of electronics and IT equipment
- Battery manufacturers/importers
- Online marketplaces, e-commerce platforms
- Multinational brands selling packaged goods
Awat Logistics helps businesses register with CPCB and implement effective EPR mechanisms, including tie-ups with certified recyclers and PROs (Producer Responsibility Organizations)
✅ EPR Compliance Services by Awat Logistics
- EPR Registration on CPCB Portal
- For plastic, battery, and e-waste categories
- Documentation support (GST, PAN, product details, etc.)
- Category classification and annual recycling targets
- EPR Plan Preparation
- Roadmap for waste collection, channelization, and disposal
- Target calculation as per tonnage and packaging types
- Budget forecasting and partner sourcing
- PRO/Recycler Coordination
- Tie-ups with CPCB-registered recyclers
- Negotiation of EPR credits and collection services
- Reverse logistics planning
- Annual and Quarterly Reporting
- Submission of Form 5, Form 6 reports
- Tracking plastic credit fulfillment
- Digital records for inspections and audits
- Audit & Advisory
- Gap assessment of existing practices
- Third-party audit support
- Regulatory updates and renewal filing
🚛 What is AEO (Authorized Economic Operator)?
The AEO program, launched by CBIC (Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs), is a trade facilitation scheme for importers, exporters, and logistics operators. It aims to secure the international supply chain and simplify customs procedures through the recognition of compliant businesses.
It’s India’s implementation of the WCO SAFE Framework of Standards, enhancing security, transparency, and efficiency in global trade.
🎯 Who Can Apply for AEO?
Businesses involved in international trade including:
- Importers & Exporters
- Logistics Providers / Freight Forwarders
- Customs Brokers (CHAs)
- Warehouses and Terminal Operators
- Transporters / 3PL / FTWZ Operators
Companies with clean customs records, compliant financials, and secure logistics operations are eligible.
🛡️ AEO Tiers in India
| AEO Tier | Description | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| AEO-T1 | Basic entry-level certification for importers/exporters | MSMEs, first-time applicants |
| AEO-T2 | Requires on-site verification, physical security | Medium to large exporters |
| AEO-T3 | Highest level with maximum benefits | Frequent, large-volume exporters |
| AEO-LO | Logistics Operators – carriers, CHAs, custodians | Freight forwarders, 3PL companies |
✅ AEO Consulting Services by Awat Logistics
- Eligibility Assessment
- Review of customs compliance history
- Screening of GST filings, financial audits, and SOPs
- GAP analysis for AEO prerequisites
- Documentation Preparation
- Compilation of over 60+ documents (customs transactions, security SOPs, HR records)
- Drafting internal manuals for cargo security, data integrity, and staff training
- Cross-functional coordination across finance, operations, and logistics teams
- AEO Application Filing
- Online registration with the CBIC portal
- Submission of Annexures I–V, depending on the tier
- Risk mitigation planning for anticipated queries
- Customs Department Liaison
- Arranging a site audit with authorized officers
- Pre-audit checks and employee training
- Real-time query resolution
- Post-Certification Support
- AEO renewal filings
- Compliance tracking for periodic audits
- Liaison during port clearances for fast-track benefits
📦 Benefits of AEO Certification
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Faster Customs Clearance | Reduced examination and inspection at ports |
| Priority Processing | Front-of-line treatment during clearance |
| Deferred Duty Payments | Flexibility on duty payments (for AEO-T3) |
| Reduced Bank Guarantees | Lower or nil guarantees under schemes like EPCG |
🔄 EPR vs AEO – Purpose and Strategic Value
| Parameter | EPR | AEO |
|---|---|---|
| Objective | Environmental compliance | Trade facilitation |
| Regulatory Body | CPCB (MoEFCC) | CBIC (Customs) |
| Target Sectors | FMCG, electronics, packaging | Exporters, importers, logistics firms |
| Focus Area | Waste collection and recycling | Cargo security and supply chain integrity |
| Mandatory? | Yes, for listed products | Voluntary but highly beneficial |
| Strategic Benefit | Avoid penalties, improve ESG | Faster logistics, global trust, and cost reduction |
💼 Why Choose Awat Logistics for EPR & AEO Consulting?
- ✅ Decades of experience in regulatory compliance
- ✅ In-house experts for CPCB, Customs, DGFT, and GST
- ✅ PAN-India service delivery and coordination
- ✅ End-to-end solutions—from eligibility to audit closure
- ✅ Proven track record with manufacturers, exporters, and logistics operators
Whether you’re an FMCG giant or a rising eCommerce player, our compliance-first approach ensures smooth registrations, cost savings, and business credibility.
📊 Case Studies
🎯 EPR Compliance for Packaged Goods Company
Challenge: Multiple SKUs, no reverse logistics system
Solution: Structured EPR roadmap with certified recyclers across 5 states
Impact: ₹8 lakh savings on compliance penalties, CPCB registration completed in 15 days
🎯 AEO-T2 Certification for Exporter Challenge: Lengthy customs clearances delaying shipments
Solution: Documentation audit, SOP writing, application filing, and customs coordination
Impact: 60% reduction in examination, clearance time dropped from 5 to 2 days
🏁 Conclusion
Regulatory excellence is a competitive advantage in today’s trade and environmental landscape. With increasing penalties for non-compliance and a growing global focus on sustainability and secure supply chains, programs like EPR and AEO have become essential for responsible business operations.
Awat Logistics empowers your business to meet these challenges with expert consulting, execution, and compliance support—ensuring you stay compliant, cost-effective, and globally trusted.
📞 Need help with EPR registration or AEO certification?
Contact Awat Logistics for comprehensive consulting and regulatory solutions tailored to your sector.