To quote for an import from the UK, a customs agent needs a description of the goods, the invoice value, the country of origin, the route and Incoterms, and the importer's EORI number. Without these, neither the duty nor the scope of formalities can be assessed.
Contents
What data to prepare
- A description of the goods – the commercial and technical name, not just "parts" or "goods". Give the CN/HS code if you know it; if not, the agent will determine it.
- Quantity and value – as on the commercial invoice, with the currency. The customs value is based on the transaction value (Articles 70–71 of the Union Customs Code), and amounts in a foreign currency are converted at the rate used in the customs declaration.
- The commercial invoice – ideally a copy straight away.
- Country of origin – where the goods were made, not where they ship from. Buying in the UK does not mean UK origin, and the TCA preference requires meeting the rules of origin and having proof of origin – see UK-EU rules of origin.
- Route and type of transport – from where to where, by road, sea or air, and who arranges the carriage. Include the Incoterms too (see Incoterms 2020).
- The importer's EORI number – if you do not have one, see how to get it.
- Timing and urgency – when the goods need to be cleared.
Why this matters
Only with this package can we assess the risk and the scope of help needed, and whether additional obligations come into play, such as transit, sanitary or phytosanitary checks, excise duty or import licences. The final price depends on the number of items, the route and the scope of services – the indicative pricing principles are on the page how much does customs clearance cost.
What to do if the data in the documents differ
Hold the declaration and align the source documents (invoice, waybill, packing list). It is best to resolve discrepancies before clearance, not after the process has already stopped. One person with full visibility of the commercial, transport and customs documents should be responsible for the final data check.
Next steps
The better prepared the data, the faster and more accurate the answer. If you would like us to assess your import from the UK, see our import service or send us your documents for an initial review. For a first shipment, our article 12 questions before shipping will also help.
Frequently asked questions
What data is needed to quote for an import from the UK?
A description of the goods, quantity and value from the invoice (with the currency), the country of origin, the route and mode of transport, Incoterms, the importer's EORI number and timing. A copy of the commercial invoice helps.
Do I need to know the CN/HS code?
No. The code speeds up the quote, but it is not required at the enquiry stage – the agent will determine it from the description and documents.
Why does the country of origin matter for imports from the UK?
Origin decides whether the preferential 0% rate under the TCA applies. Buying or shipping from the UK does not mean UK origin – goods made in China, say, do not have British origin, and proof of origin is a statement on origin by the exporter or the importer's knowledge.
Is the quote binding?
The quote is based on the data you provide. If the documents differ from the enquiry (a different value, items or route), the scope and cost may change. The pricing principles are on the pricing page.
What should I do if the data in the documents differ?
Hold the declaration and align the source documents before clearance, because fixing discrepancies after the process has stopped is more expensive.
Related guides
Have a similar case? Ask a customs agency
Describe the goods or vehicle, the route and timing. We reply on working days, usually the same day.
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