Customs support. People who help with the details.
Keep customs paperwork connected to the shipment. We help coordinate the information and documents needed for clearance, liaise with the parties involved and keep you informed about outstanding queries.
Customs clearance support for UK importers and exporters
A shipment can be booked while important customs details are still missing. We help organise the information and documents, identify gaps and coordinate queries with the parties handling clearance. You have people to speak to about what is needed and who is taking the next step.
Get the information together early
The details needed depend on the goods, route and customs procedure. A useful starting point is the commercial invoice, packing details, goods description, value, origin, commodity codes and relevant business identification, including an EORI where required. Licences or certificates may also be needed for some goods.
We help bring the shipment information together and flag questions for resolution. Sending paperwork before the goods are ready to move creates more opportunity to deal with missing or inconsistent details.
Clear responsibilities from the start
We agree the support required and who is responsible for each part of the process. Where a customs representative is appointed, the authority and basis of representation must be clear. Using an agent does not remove all of the importer’s or exporter’s responsibilities.
For the official guidance, see HMRC’s guide to appointing someone to deal with customs and the UK import checklist.
Connected to the rest of your shipment
Customs queries affect suppliers, transport bookings and delivery plans. We coordinate the paperwork alongside your sea freight, air freight or road freight arrangements, helping the relevant people work from the same shipment information.
What to send us
Tell us what the goods are, where they are moving from and to, who is buying and selling them, and when the shipment is expected. Share the available invoice and packing information, any agreed shipping terms, and details of an existing customs agent if one is already involved. We will review the support needed before agreeing the work.
Customs support questions
Can you tell me the duty from the freight quote alone?
No. Customs charges depend on details including classification, value, origin and the applicable procedure. Freight charges and customs charges should be understood separately.
Does every shipment follow the same process?
No. The route, goods and intended use matter. Tell us about special circumstances early so the appropriate requirements can be checked.
Can you help when information is missing?
Yes. We can help identify what is missing and coordinate follow-ups with you, your supplier and the clearance parties. Accurate source information still needs to come from the responsible business.