Importing Household Chemicals from the EU to the UK – A Practical Guide

Importing household chemicals, such as detergents and cleaning products, requires meeting UK customs and technical regulations. Optimising your import processes can help you avoid mistakes and reduce costs. Here is a guide that walks step by step through the key aspects of importing household chemicals into the United Kingdom.

1. Benefits of the Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA)

Thanks to the TCA agreement between the EU and the UK, you can import goods duty-free if they meet the rules of origin.

• Rules of origin: Products must be manufactured in the EU.
• Proof of origin: A statement on the invoice confirming origin is essential.
  Products that do not meet the TCA requirements are subject to the duty rates set out in the UK Global Tariff (UKGT).

2. Duties and VAT – What You Need to Know

• Duties:

  • No duty for goods meeting the TCA rules.
  • Example HS codes:
    • 3402.20: Cleaning products in retail packaging – usually duty-free.
    • 3808.94: Disinfectants – duty depends on classification.

• VAT:

  • The applicable rate is 20%.
  • VAT is calculated on the value of the goods, transport costs and any duty.

3. UK REACH Requirements and Other Regulations

UK REACH compliance:
Importing chemicals requires compliance with the UK's system for the registration and control of chemical substances, UK REACH.

• Registering products under REACH is mandatory.
• The importer is responsible for their compliance.

Product labelling:
Every product must meet the labelling requirements:

• Information on ingredients and hazard symbols.
• Instructions for use in English.

Safety Data Sheets (SDS):
Required for every product, to provide detailed information on risks and safe use.

Biocidal product regulations:
Disinfectants must be notified to the HSE (Health and Safety Executive) and meet the relevant requirements.

4. Import Documentation – The Key to Fast Clearance

• Commercial invoice: Contains data on the value and origin of the goods.
• Packing list: Makes it easier to identify the goods during clearance.
• Proof of origin: Essential for using TCA customs preferences.
• Customs declaration: All goods must be declared to the UK customs system.

5. Costs and Additional Requirements

• Recycling and waste management:
  Importers must comply with packaging waste regulations.

• Additional costs:

  • Customs clearance.
  • REACH registration.
  • Transport insurance.

Summary: A Checklist for Importers

1. Verify the rules of origin: Take advantage of TCA customs preferences.
2. Register your products under UK REACH: Make sure the chemical substances comply with the regulations.
3. Take care of labelling: Prepare labels that meet UK requirements.
4. Prepare full documentation: Invoices, packing lists and SDS.
5. Calculate VAT and import costs: Include all charges in your calculation.

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• Email: info@agencjacelna.uk

• Phone +44 333 335 5072