A customs declaration allows you to ship goods from the UK
to anywhere in the world.
It’s required for all countries, including the EU.
It’s a legal document that helps governments track goods
pay duties, and ensures shipments are both safe and legal.
It’s essential to get these forms right.
Otherwise they can cause delays to your shipment.
But they also act as proof that you’ve sent goods overseas
which you'll need if you’re claiming back any
excise duties in the UK.
It’s often easier to pay someone to help
such as a freight forwarder, customs agent
or international courier.
Completed customs declarations can be part of the service.
All the details are taken care of and the cost is
worked into the overall contract.
Most customs declarations are submitted electronically
via the National Export System, or NES.
If you do this yourself, register via gov.uk
where you’ll find a step-by-step guide to help you.
Even if you use an agent or freight forwarder
you’ll need an Economic Operators Registration
and Identification (EORI) number
which you can apply for on gov.uk.