Methodology and limits

CBAMPlanner is built for operational screening only. It gives a fast first-pass answer on likely relevance, threshold exposure relative to 50 tonnes, probable next step, evidence to prepare, and when escalation is sensible.

What the tool evaluates

• Whether the selected product category matches the initial CBAM categories used by the tool: cement, iron and steel, aluminium, fertilisers, electricity, and hydrogen.
• Whether the estimated annual import volume appears below, near, or above the 50-tonne level.
• Whether the import flow is one-off, repeated, or growing.
• Whether the importer/declarant context appears straightforward or complex.

How the result is produced

The browser-side logic combines category fit, volume band, import pattern, and certainty level into a practical screening state:

• Likely out of initial focus for cases outside the initial category set with low apparent volume and limited complexity.
• Likely in scope / monitor for covered categories with lower volume and a simpler operating context.
• Likely relevant / prepare evidence for covered or uncertain cases where volume is near threshold, repeated, or needs structured preparation.
• Escalate now for declarant/compliance review for cases above threshold, clearly sensitive, or operationally complex.

Important assumptions

• The category question is a practical proxy, not a formal tariff or legal determination.
• The tonnage view is based on the user's estimate or band selection.
• Repeated and growing flows deserve more caution than isolated shipments.
• Complex importer or declarant arrangements increase escalation pressure even where volume data is incomplete.

Limits

• The tool does not determine legal scope or provide binding customs advice.
• The tool does not replace product classification work, declarant analysis, or specialist review.
• The tool does not store cases, coordinate teams, or act as a compliance system of record.
• The tool is intentionally conservative when category fit or operating context is unclear.

Use CBAMPlanner to organise the case and prepare internal review. Do not use it as the sole basis for a legal, customs, or regulatory conclusion.