What are customs declarations and why are they important?

Customs declarations are legally-required forms which are used to accompany goods that are entering or leaving a market. 

It is businesses’ responsibility to declare all movements of goods to HMRC promptly and accurately. This includes obtaining any applicable licences, permits and compliance with quotas. Incorrect declarations can lead to delays in clearing goods through ports and potential punitive action by HMRC.

Why choose LCCI customs declaration service?

• It is the only customs broker in the country with direct links to all air, sea and road port terminals in the UK.
   
• We can access faster duty and VAT payments through our deferment account and make duty and VAT payments to HMRC on your behalf.
   
• This service sits alongside our regular export documentation offer of Certificates of Origin, Movement Certificates (for claiming preference) and other documentation required in international trade.
   
• It is staffed by an experienced customs declaration team with experience in a wide range of sectors and transport modes.

What information is required for export entry?

• Commercial invoice and packing list
• Any applicable certificates or licences
• Your EORI number
• Tariff / commodity code for the goods
• Customs Procedure Code
• Port of exit
• Name of the vessel, flight number or registration number for the vehicle

What information is required for import entry?

• Commercial invoice and packing list
• Any applicable certificates, permits or licences
• Your EORI number
• FAS – Flexible Accounting System - details
• Tariff/commodity code for the goods
• Customs Procedure Code
• Name of the vessel, flight number or registration number for the vehicle
• Port of arrival
• Shipping and insurance costs

How much will it cost?

Registration to LCCI's customs declarations service is free of charge. Costs will vary with the type of service required and the complexity of the declaration.

For example, mixed consignments will take longer to declare and may involve multiple certificates or permits. Export declaration fees start from £20.00 + VAT and Import fees from £45.00 + VAT per customs entry. Additional charges may apply depending on the service required.

Other LCCI services

We run a number of services at the Chamber which you may find useful for your business:

Export Documentation
EU Exit Hub
Events and Training Courses
Arbitration and Mediation
Policy and Campaigning 
Membership