UK Customs Controls From 1st January 2022

From 1st January 2022, full UK customs declarations will be required for both GB – EU and EU – GB cargo movements. Checks will be in place to ensure compliance.

• Before travel, the vehicle will need Goods Movement Reference (GMR) using the Goods Vehicle Movement Service (GVMS)
• The GMR will include customs references obtained through the various border formalities systems (NCTS, CHIEF, etc). Safety and security references and those obtained via IPAFFS will not need to be added into the GMR at this time (generally supplied by the customs broker)
• Please note that following the decision made by the British authorities, should the GMR reference be invalid, the vehicle should be stopped from departing
• EIDR will no longer be acceptable
• For those more familiar with Deepsea and Air movements, consider the GMR to be the equivalent to a MUCR
• Importers should request the GMR and check the cargo is not required for examination on arrival in the UK. If it is, make sure the cargo has been cleared before it is off loaded. Check the GMR reference using the government website (the GMR has an embedded link to the government website)
• REMEMBER: It is the legal duty of the UK Importer or Exporter to ensure the goods are correctly customs cleared, the customs broker is only acting as your representative

Action required now:

• Check international hauliers you are using have registered to use the GVMS system (this includes any non-UK hauliers). If not, they should register here
• They will need to obtain a UK Government Gateway Account
• Non-UK hauliers must obtain a GB EORI prior to applying for GVMS registration
• Ensure that good lines of communication are open between Buyer, Seller, Haulier and Customs brokers. It will be imperative that UK customs declarations are lodged at the correct ports before the vehicles start their journey to the ferry port. Failure to do so will almost certainly result in delays and extra costs
• Make sure all information provided is complete and accurate and provided in good time
• Ensure you have a process to provide the correct documentation is available before the cargo moves. This should include
  • Commercial Invoice showing: -
    • Vendor Name and details including EORI number
    • Consignee Name and details including VAT and EORI numbers
    • Currency Notifier (ie USD, EUR, GBP)
    • Price per Sales Unit / SKU
    • Incoterms
    • HS Code per item
    • PO Number
  • Packing List containing full specification of cargo (ie measurements, weight)

We are continuing to monitor the situation and will keep you updated. For any enquiries relating to specific bookings, please contact our Customer teams.