Customs Processes

The term customs processes covers quite a wide range of things but most people use it to refer what needs to be done to import their goods to the UK or export their goods from the UK – the customs clearance process.

In other words, what are the correct steps to take to be able to complete a customs declaration accurately.

Most companies won't be able to do this themselves and will need a customs broker to enter the information on to CDS (Customs Declaration System) for them.

You will need to know the consignor and consignee EORI number (for the EU), the HS or commodity code of the products and the reason for export/import (the Customs Procedure Code). It is also very important to include all the correct information on the commercial invoice in the right format. Customs processes could also be used to refer to the customs procedures.

The customs procedures are “release for free circulation”, “special procedures” and “export”. The special procedures include;
  • Transit: Move goods through customs territories under duty suspension
  • Authorised use: Reduce duty when you import goods for a specific use i.e. repairs, maintenance or processing
  • Customs Warehouse: Delay payment of Duty and VAT
  • Temporary Admission: Import goods temporarily for a specific purpose
  • Inward/Outward processing: Reduce or remove duty payments for authorised processing of goods
It can all be very confusing so contact us today for a free consultation and we’ll explain what you need to do and how to do it. For more information about how we’ve helped other companies with these issues have a look at our case studies page – in every case we have simplified the import/export process and reduced costs.  

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