With the UK officially out of the EU, cross-border trade has become significantly more complex. Brexit customs regulations now govern all shipments between the UK & EU countries, and understanding these new procedures is vital for businesses to avoid costly delays and fines.
For UK exporters and importers, the key to maintaining a smooth supply chain is efficient customs clearance in the UK. In this article, we break down the latest post-Brexit requirements and share tips for streamlining your EU trade operations.
Understanding Brexit Customs: What’s Changed?
Before Brexit, UK-EU trade flowed freely without customs checks. Post-Brexit, however, all goods moving between the UK and EU require full customs declarations, much like non-EU international shipments.
Here’s what UK businesses must now provide:
- EORI Number: You must have an Economic Operator Registration and Identification (EORI) number starting with “GB” to trade with the EU.
- Commercial Invoice: This must include full product descriptions, HS codes, quantities, and values.
- Import/Export Declarations: Submitted electronically via the HMRC Customs Declaration Service (CDS).
- Customs Duty & VAT: Depending on the goods and origin, these may be applicable and must be calculated correctly.
Tips to Avoid Customs Delays
Navigating UK customs clearance can be daunting, especially with constantly evolving requirements. To ensure your shipments to and from the EU pass smoothly through customs, follow these best practices:
- Ensure Accurate Documentation
Double-check all paperwork—commercial invoices, packing lists, and transport documents—for accuracy and consistency. - Use the Correct HS Codes
Classify your products correctly using Harmonized System codes to prevent classification errors and unexpected charges. - Register for Simplified Customs Procedures
HMRC offers simplified procedures for trusted traders, including the ability to defer declarations and payments. - Partner with Trusted Customs Experts
Hiring experienced customs clearance agents in the UK can save you time and reduce risk, especially when dealing with complex EU supply chains.
Dover: The Heart of UK-EU Road Transport
As the majority of UK-EU trade relies on road cargo, the Port of Dover is a critical gateway for shipments transported via trucks and ferries. Ensuring smooth Dover customs clearance is essential for businesses moving goods to and from the EU. Work with customs agents who have expertise in Dover’s port systems and strong relationships with border control to expedite clearance and avoid bottlenecks.
Felixstowe: A Strategic Gateway
Felixstowe remains one of the UK’s busiest ports for EU trade. Ensuring smooth Felixstowe customs clearance is essential for companies importing through this major hub. Work with agents who have direct access to the port systems and established relationships with border control.
How 121 Air Sea Cargo Simplifies Brexit Customs
At 121 Air Sea Cargo, we specialize in handling customs clearance for UK-EU shipments. Our in-house experts manage end-to-end compliance, helping clients avoid delays, rejections, or penalties.
Whether you’re shipping via air, sea, or road, we offer:
- Fast-track UK customs clearance
- Assistance with EORI registration
- Document preparation and submission
- Tariff classification and duty calculations
- Real-time shipment tracking and support
We also provide tailored solutions for clients using key ports like Felixstowe and Heathrow.
Partner with 121 Air Sea Cargo and stay Brexit-compliant while focusing on what matters most—growing your business.
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