As part of its efforts to improve key disaster response tools, OCHA, in cooperation with UN agencies and the international community, has initiated a process to ensure application of simplified customs procedures.

These procedures are designed to speed up the delivery of international humanitarian assistance, including relief consignments, military, civil defense, civil protection assets and international humanitarian personnel.

The Model Customs Facilitation Agreement between the UN and States/Governments, developed by OCHA and approved by the World Customs Organization (WCO), includes recommended measures to expedite customs clearance procedures, such as simplified documentation and inspection procedures, the temporary or permanent waiving of duties and taxes on imports, and arrangements for clearance outside official working hours and locations.

The Model Agreement covers all UN-led humanitarian emergency assistance operations. It simplifies border-crossing procedures for UN delegates, experts on mission for the UN, emergency response personnel such as International Search and Rescue Teams (INSARAG) or UN Disaster Assessment Teams (UNDAC), international medical personnel, and staff provided by international military, civil defense and civil protection organizations.