When Customs Become a Strategic Challenge for a French SME
In a sector as sensitive as satellite communications, customs compliance cannot be taken lightly. The experience of Kratos Communications, a French SME affiliated with a U.S. group, highlights the daily challenges faced by many exporting technology companies.
Specializing in the integration of satellite communication solutions for the ground segment, Kratos Communications assembles technical components sourced from multiple international suppliers. The company is experiencing strong growth, but it does not have a dedicated customs department.
“Our products are sensitive and sometimes subject to strict controls related to dual-use goods. Without an in-house expert, it became urgent for us to secure the reliability of all our customs processes,” explains a member of the logistics team.
Among the recurring challenges: determining the correct customs classifications (HS codes), verifying whether equipment falls under dual-use regulations, and keeping track of regulatory changes. “We needed a simple, fast, and reliable way to cross-check the right information, without spending hours on it.” Document research was time-consuming, technical teams weren’t always aligned on customs criteria, and some shipments could be held up while awaiting clarification with the authorities.
To address this vulnerability, Kratos implemented a centralization and monitoring tool. The goal: to identify the correct codes more quickly, receive alerts in case of regulatory changes, and resolve internal doubts without having to systematically rely on authorities or external service providers.
The result: a significant reduction in blocked shipments, improved customs expertise within the logistics team, and a noticeable time savings in managing export documentation.
“Verifying an HS code or checking whether a product is classified as sensitive is now much more streamlined, which secures our international operations and strengthens our credibility with partners,” the company concludes.
A case study that clearly illustrates a key reality: in the absence of an internal customs department, the right tools and team awareness can enable industrial SMEs to secure their operations—and continue growing with confidence.
It is with this mindset that Kratos chose to rely on Okiduty, a solution designed to streamline and strengthen day-to-day customs management.
