A Duty Deferment Account (DDA) lets you settle duty, import VAT and excise duty once a month instead of paying them at every single clearance, which significantly speeds up the release of goods at the border. Opening an account usually requires a financial guarantee, although some businesses — once they meet HMRC's criteria — can use a guarantee waiver. Below we explain how to get a DAN and how to link it to declarations filed in CDS.
Contents
In brief — what you will learn
- ✓ How to prepare the process and the documents
- ✓ How the declaration and inspection work
- ✓ How to maintain compliance and settlements
How to prepare the process and the documents
Split of responsibilities between the parties
Minimum data set for the declaration
Correctly filing a customs declaration in the CDS (Customs Declaration Service) system requires at least: the importer's EORI number, the goods' tariff code (CN/HS), a customs value matching the commercial invoice, the country of origin, the DAN (Deferment Account Number), and the payment method used for the charges. This keeps the process repeatable and resistant to misinterpretation from unofficial sources. If any element is incomplete, the HMRC system will reject the declaration before it is processed.
Easy Clearance specialises in import and export to the UK.
How the declaration and inspection work
Operational stages from pre-notification to release
The most common risk points and how to limit them
How to maintain compliance and settlements
A systematic approach to record-keeping and internal audit is a key element of your defence during a customs inspection. It is therefore worth introducing a document-completeness check before the vehicle is presented, not only after the goods are released.
Record-keeping, corrections and evidence of due diligence
For record-keeping in the context of a deferment account, it is worth preparing an internal checklist covering: keeping customs declarations for at least 4 years (an HMRC requirement), documentation of amendments filed after the goods are released, proof of payments from the DAN account, and correspondence with HMRC in the event of a post-clearance audit. Evidence of due diligence — including a record of verifying exchange rates and the sources of the customs value — is a key element of your defence during an audit.
Working with a customs agency and internal audit
Effective cooperation with a customs agency requires granting authorisation to use the importer's deferment account (through standing authority in the CDS financial dashboard) and regularly reviewing settlement reports. The reference point for internal audit should be official HMRC guidance on Customs Duty Deferment, including the rules on bank guarantees and guarantee waivers. It is worth carrying out an internal audit quarterly, checking that the tariff codes used match the current Trade Tariff rates.
Summary
In summary: for 'how does a UK deferment account work', the key is to run the process according to current official guidance, with a clear split of responsibilities and documentation of every decision. This approach reduces delays, cuts the number of corrections and makes it easier to defend the settlements during an inspection. If any requirement is unclear, check the current GOV.UK guidance on Customs Duty Deferment or consult a customs agency holding HMRC authorisation.
Legal basis and sources
- Polish Ministry of Finance: Podatki.gov.pl
- PUESC: Platform of Electronic Tax and Customs Services
- HMRC: GOV.UK Trade Tariff API
If the rules or system notices are updated, check the current GOV.UK or KAS guidance before submitting a declaration.
Frequently asked questions
What is a UK deferment account and who can use it?
A deferment account (DAN — Deferment Account Number) is an HMRC facility that lets importers defer payment of duty and import VAT until the 15th of the following month, instead of settling the charges at every clearance. It can be used by companies with a UK-registered EORI number, after applying to HMRC and obtaining a bank guarantee or a guarantee waiver under a simplified procedure.
How do you apply for a deferment account with HMRC?
The application is submitted through the GOV.UK portal by completing form C1200. The required details are the EORI number, the company's registration details, and information on the bank guarantee or an application for a guarantee waiver. HMRC usually processes the application within 30 business days. Once the DAN is granted, you should inform your customs agent and register its authority in the CDS system.
What charges can be deferred using a deferment account?
A deferment account can be used to defer: Customs Duty, import VAT, excise duty on excisable goods, and anti-dumping duties. It cannot, however, be used to defer port charges or storage costs — these must be settled directly with the terminal operator or the freight forwarder.
What is the deferment account's credit limit and how can it be increased?
The credit limit is set individually by HMRC based on import history and the amount of the bank guarantee provided. If the total unpaid charges exceed the granted limit, HMRC temporarily blocks the ability to use deferment. To increase the limit, you must apply to raise the bank guarantee or apply for an extended guarantee waiver. The current DAN balance is available in real time in the CDS system.
Can a Polish company or customs agency use a client's deferment account?
Yes — the importer can authorise a customs agency to use their deferment account by granting standing authority in the CDS (Customs Declaration Service financial dashboard). The agency then quotes the importer's DAN when filing the customs declaration. Alternatively, the agency may hold its own DAN and include the cost of deferment in the price of the service. In every case, responsibility for settling the charges on time rests with the owner of the DAN account.
Related guides
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