Frequently Asked Questions
The post-Brexit customs questions we get asked most often
What is the Customs Declaration Service (CDS)?
CDS is HMRC's single platform for submitting all UK import and export declarations. It replaced the legacy CHIEF system in two stages — imports moved across in 2022 and exports in November 2024. Every customs entry into or out of the UK now goes through CDS.
Do I need a customs broker to declare EU ↔ UK shipments?
Legally you can self-declare if you have CDS access and the right software, but in practice almost all traders use a broker. CDS data is technical (commodity codes, CPCs, document codes, additional codes), HMRC penalties for errors are high, and a wrongly filed entry can hold your truck at the port. Using a broker removes that risk.
How fast can you file my declaration?
For standard shipments we typically submit within two to four working hours of receiving complete documents. Pre-lodged declarations are filed before the goods reach the port so the truck does not have to wait. Out-of-hours and urgent requests are quoted on a case-by-case basis.
What is the difference between a GB EORI and an EU EORI?
A GB EORI is issued by HMRC and is used for declarations in the UK (England, Scotland, Wales). An EU EORI is issued by an EU customs authority and is needed if you act as importer of record inside the EU. Many traders need both — one for the UK side and one for the EU side.
What documents do I need for a UK import declaration?
At a minimum: commercial invoice, packing list, transport document (CMR for road, B/L for sea, AWB for air), and the importer's EORI number. Depending on the goods you may also need a preference statement on origin, a health certificate (food/animal products), a licence (controlled goods), or a phytosanitary certificate.
What is GVMS and when does my haulier need a GMR?
GVMS (Goods Vehicle Movement Service) links customs declarations to the physical movement of a vehicle at a UK RoRo port like Dover, Folkestone, Felixstowe or Holyhead. The haulier presents a single Goods Movement Reference (GMR) — a QR code — that proves all the customs entries are linked to the vehicle. Without it, the truck cannot board.
Are you affected by ICS2?
ICS2 (Import Control System 2) is the EU's pre-arrival safety and security programme. From January 2025 it applies to road freight entering the EU, and from January 2026 it covers all freight modes. UK exporters sending goods into the EU must provide ICS2 ENS data — we lodge this as part of the export workflow.
Do you work with Turkish-speaking importers and exporters?
Yes. Our team is fully bilingual in English and Turkish. We work regularly with Turkish manufacturers and freight forwarders moving goods into the UK and EU markets, and we handle correspondence, documents and HMRC liaison in both languages.