The TRS is one of the most widely recognized and applied tools developed by the WCO. By providing a globally accepted methodology to collect and analyze data on the performance of border clearance processes, it enables the identification of bottlenecks at border points, trade corridors and across different modes of transport (land, air and maritime), and guides the development of appropriate policy and operational measures. In other words, the TRS provides governments with the insights needed to design tailored reforms that reduce delays, lower trade transaction costs, and improve predictability.

First developed over 25 years ago, the tool has gained in popularity in recent years due to the implementation of the World Trade Organization (WTO) Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA).Article 7.6.1 of the TFA encourages the measurement and publication of average release time periodically and consistently, using tools such as, inter alia, the WCO TRS. Some administrations have shared their experience with the TRS in the pages of this magazine.

The TRS methodology is described in a guide which latest version was released a few months ago under the title Time Release Study Guide, Version 4, 2025. The update responds to the rapid evolution of global supply chains, the introduction of new technologies, and the growing need to reduce costs and times in the cross-border movement of goods. It draws on lessons from TRS technical assistance missions and incorporates feedback from Members and stakeholders.

Key enhancements are aimed at strengthening:

• strategic foundation and planning: a formal mandate and structured action plan should be established to align the TRS with national trade facilitation goals. The Guide also provides more information on scope definition, strategic planning and coordinated implementation through well-defined roles and responsibilities.
• enhanced methodology and process mapping: structured approaches to defining scope (risk-based, phase-specific, etc.) and business process mapping should be adopted using tools such as swimlane diagrams, which help identify bottlenecks and stakeholder accountability.
• data collection and sampling: questionnaires should be designed with both closed and open-ended questions to capture quantitative and qualitative data. The Guide offers enhanced guidance on stratified sampling and statistical formulas to ensure data quality and representativeness.
• preparation and testing: the test run phase should be expanded beyond questionnaire checks to cover technical, logistical and procedural readiness, ensuring smoother implementation.
• comprehensive data analysis framework: the section on the analysis phase has been reinforced to include information on verification, harmonization, segmentation, and time-interval analysis. It also introduces methods for managing outliers, applying descriptive statistics, and conducting trend analysis.
• visualization and communication: use of charts, graphs and diagrams is encouraged to present results clearly to both technical experts and policymakers.
• implementation and monitoring: the Guide outlines robust planning tools, including SMART objectives and the RACI matrix, to clarify responsibilities. It also introduces a maturity indicator system (traffic light model) and feedback loop for continuous monitoring and evaluation.
• focus on efficiency and impact: emphasis is placed on reducing delays, redundancies and unnecessary handoffs, enabling more data-driven decision-making and measurable improvements in border clearance performance.

The updated Guide underscores that the TRS is not only a Customs tool but a whole-of-border performance measurement instrument. It calls for inclusive participation of all relevant cross-border agencies and emphasizes the role of National Trade Facilitation Committees (NCTFs) in coordinating efforts. This broader and more collaborative approach enhances inter-agency coordination, promotes shared ownership, and increases the overall impact of TRS outcomes.

Beyond national application, the TRS is now implemented at the bilateral, regional and multi-regional levels. In Africa, the East African Community (EAC) pioneered the first regional TRS in 2013–2014 on the Northern and Central Corridors, followed by another in 2016 on the Northern Corridor. Building on this success, the EAC has recently completed a new round of TRS covering both corridors, with the report currently under validation (as of September 2025). Also in 2016, the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) carried out a regional TRS across 10 Member States. Most recently, in February 2025, the Southern African Development Community (SADC) completed a TRS on the North-South Corridor.

These initiatives demonstrate how the TRS has evolved into a collaborative instrument at the regional and multi-regional levels, offering Members shared data to identify bottlenecks and implement coordinated solutions.

More information
WCO Time Release Study Guide