Catherine Truel’s authoritative reference on customs compliance, adopted by universities and business leaders.
Published by Gower, A Short Guide to Customs Risk has become a trusted reference in the field of customs compliance. It addresses one of the most overlooked yet critical aspects of global trade: how customs management affects risk, cost, and operational efficiency.
Since its release, the book has been:
- Adopted in universities as part of courses on international trade and supply chain management.
- Referenced by practitioners across industries navigating the complexity of customs.
- Discussed at conferences in Europe and Asia.
Why the Book Matters

Customs risk is often underestimated by businesses until it becomes a costly problem. This book provides a framework to:
- Identify risks hidden in day-to-day customs processes.
- Integrate customs into wider business strategy.
- Understand the regulatory landscape and its implications for international trade.
Written in clear, practical language, it combines regulatory grounding with business application; a rare balance in this domain.
Enduring Relevance
More than a decade after publication, A Short Guide to Customs Risk continues to be cited and recommended. Its enduring relevance comes from addressing the fundamental principles of customs management that remain critical even as regulations evolve.
Today, Catherine builds on the foundation of the book with a special focus on rules of origin, the determining factor in many trade agreements and compliance strategies.
Reader Profiles
The book has proven valuable to:
- Executives and directors responsible for tax, logistics, and operations.
- Academics and students studying international business and trade.
- Policy and compliance professionals navigating regulatory frameworks.
Where to Find It
The book is available through leading retailers including Amazon.
From Book to Practice
While the book provides a framework, Catherine also works with organisations that need tailored analysis and advisory input, particularly on rules of origin and complex compliance matters.