Customs Clearance When Importing Goods into the UK – Step by Step

Customs Clearance When Importing Goods into the UK – Step by Step

The procedure for importing goods into the United Kingdom consists of several stages. Many companies use a customs agency or carrier to make sure the process complies with the rules. If you need operational support, also see our page on Importing from the UK to Poland.

Step 1: Check the rules for your goods

Find out whether your product needs special licences or certificates. Food products, plants, animals and medicines are subject to additional requirements. In practice, it's also worth checking the classification of the goods and the tariff code in advance, since further obligations depend on it.

Step 2: Use your EORI number

Make sure your company has an EORI number. Without it, you can't lodge import declarations. If you don't have a number yet, read our guide: how to get an EORI number in the United Kingdom.

Step 3: Classifying the goods and calculating the charges

Determine your product's tariff code to establish the rates of duty, VAT and any excise duty. If the import involves transport through several countries or temporary storage, also check whether a transit procedure or a T1 document will be needed.

Step 4: Preparing the documents

Prepare the commercial invoice, transport document, packing list and any licences or certificates needed for the import. For more complex routes, the guide to the T1 document can also be helpful.

Step 5: Lodging the import declaration

The declaration can be lodged yourself or through a customs agency. Most companies use an agent, which saves time and minimises mistakes.

Step 6: Paying the charges

Once the declaration is approved, the duty and taxes owed must be paid. Once paid, the goods can be released into free circulation.

Watch the video too

This video shows the logic of a UK customs declaration and is a good complement to the article on preparing data and documents.

Summary

Customs clearance requires thorough documentation and a good knowledge of the rules. If you'd like to get your documents and import stages in order, you'll find more expert material in the easyclearance.pl knowledge base too. If you need step-by-step handling of your case, get in touch with us through our contact form.

Related guides for importers and transport

If, beyond clearance itself, you want to reduce the risk of being held up at the border, also read two practical pieces: GMR vs ENS - what's the difference and what you need to prepare before leaving for the UK and Goods held at the UK border - a 15-minute checklist for hauliers and freight forwarders. Both articles help you get organised, either before the port or when your transport is already stopped.