Initially developed over 25 years ago, the Time Release Study (TRS) Guide is a well-accepted methodology for measuring the time taken from the arrival of goods to their physical release. It was last updated in 2018 as the “Guide to Measure the Time Required for the Release of Goods (Version 3)” and has now been further updated with Version 4 (2025). Today, the TRS methodology set out in the Guide remains one of the most widely applied, validated, and mature methodologies supporting the effective implementation of TRS by WCO Members.

This update also reinforces the WCO’s strategic commitment to supporting Members in the effective implementation of the World Trade Organization Trade Facilitation Agreement (WTO-TFA). The WCO TRS is specifically referenced in Article 7.6 of the WTO-TFA. Over the years, the TRS has been increasingly applied by Members with respect to strategic planning and the proper implementation of TFA measures in accordance with their National Committees on Trade Facilitation (NCTF).

The updated TRS Guide Version 4 (2025) introduces several important enhancements based on Member experiences and evolving good practices. The strategic foundations of the TRS have been solidified through the introduction of formal mandates and structured planning, offering a clearer scope and improved coordination during implementation. The methodology has been refined through more advanced business process mapping and a more flexible approach. Improvements have been made to questionnaire design and sampling techniques to ensure data accuracy. A broadened testing phase addresses not only questionnaire piloting but also technical, procedural and logistical readiness. Data analysis has been reinforced through segmentation, harmonization and structured time interval analysis, with new guidance on trend analysis and managing outliers. Greater emphasis has been placed on data visualization to communicate findings effectively. In addition, the Guide encourages results-oriented implementation planning, supported by structured follow-up mechanisms and continuous performance monitoring.

The updated Guide ultimately strengthens the growing recognition that the TRS is a whole-of-border performance tool, increasingly relevant not only to Customs but also to other cross-border regulatory agencies involved in international trade. The Guide encourages inclusive participation in every phase of the Study and underscores the role of NCTF in facilitating such efforts. This broader, more collaborative approach enhances inter-agency coordination, promotes ownership and increases the overall impact of the TRS outcomes.