Русско-англо-русский юридический словарь

"A custom house or customs house was a building housing the offices for the government officials who processed the paperwork associated with importing and exporting goods into and out of a country. [...] The custom house was typically located in a seaport or in a city on a major river, with access to the ocean. [...] Due to advances in electronic information systems, the increased volume of international trade, and the introduction of air travel, the term ""custom house"" is now often an historical anachronism." (Wikipedia)

The benefits system is complex, heavy on paperwork and rules, and benefits officers have discretion over whether to give grants, or impose punitive sanctions. (stuff.co.nz)