All Trade Documentation
LCCI is the UK’s largest trade documents issuer, available online, by phone and in person. We provide a range of international trade documents, including ATA Carnets, Certificates of Origin and EUR1 Movement Certicate.
Trade Documentation
Customs Declarations
As of 1 January 2021, any UK business involved with importing or exporting goods to and from the European Union must declare their shipments to HMRC. This is done in a form of a customs declaration, which is an official document listing exactly what is being imported or exported and provides information required to evaluate the safety and security aspects of the goods as well as to calculate and collect any applicable import duty and VAT.
Our Customs Declaration team has a wealth of experience in a wide range of sectors covering the three main transport modes (sea, air and road), and are ready to assist your business.
Safety and security declarations – new requirements from 31 January 2025
From 31 January 2025, all European Union (EU) imports into Great Britain (GB) will require safety and security declarations. It is the carrier's responsibility to submit Entry Summary Declaration (ENS).
Please visit gov.uk for further information.
ChamberCustoms
LCCI is part of ChamberCustoms Ltd, the customs agent and brokerage service from Chambers of Commerce in the UK. With our extensive knowledge, reputation, and first-class service in facilitating international trade, we can take the hassle out of your hands when it comes to exporting and importing goods into the UK. The service ensures that customs clearance is accurate, timely and most importantly compliant.
What are customs declarations and why are they important?
Customs declarations are legally required documents that need to be submitted to customs authorities to accompany goods that are being traded across international borders.
It is businesses’ responsibility to declare all international movements of goods to HMRC promptly and accurately. This includes obtaining any applicable licences, certificates and permits. Incorrect declarations can lead to delays in clearing goods at the border and potential punitive action by HMRC.
Why choose LCCI customs declaration service?
- We are the only customs broker in the country with direct links to the main UK ports and most modes of transport: air, sea and road.
- This service sits alongside our regular trade documents offer of Certificates of Origin, Movement Certificates – EUR1 (for claiming preference), ATA Carnets and other documentation required in international trade.
- It is staffed by an accomplished team of Customs Declaration operatives who have expertise across various sectors and modes of transport.
- We always strive for maximum compliance in any declaration processed.
What information is required for export entry?
- Your EORI number
- Successful registration to Customs Declarations Service (CDS)
- Commercial invoice and packing list
- Any applicable certificates, permits or licences
- HS code / commodity code of the goods
- UK port of exit
- Name of the vessel, flight number or registration number for the vehicle
What information is required for import entry?
- Your EORI number
- Successful registration to Customs Declarations Service (CDS)
- Commercial invoice and packing list
- Any applicable certificates, permits or licences
- HS code / commodity code of the goods
- Name of the vessel, flight number or registration number for the vehicle
- UK port of arrival
- INCOTERMS
- Freight charges
How much do Custom Declarations cost?
Registration to LCCI's customs declarations service is free of charge.
Costs will vary with the type of service required and the complexity of the declaration. Please contact us directly using the get in touch form below to hear more about our pricing structure.
Customer Testimonial
LCCI were able to undertake all the checks, determine which application type basis, and forms should be followed to enable meaningful application and likely success
Michael Cutler-Hodgson
Michael Cutler-Hodgson | Managing Director, BMEC
GMR Completion Service
Goods Movement Reference (GMRs) are a new UK customs requirement for traders moving goods into or out of Northern Ireland and Great Britain by road through GVMS linked ports. GMRs allow pre-notify all existing customs declarations, ATA Carnets, and any relevant customs documents that relate to a particular shipment through a unique identifier (barcode) that links them together. GMR’s can be obtained by traders directly or by their transport providers through the GVMS (Goods Vehicle Movement Service) platform. For companies and individuals that are unable to complete their own GMRs, we are here to help. For a set fee of £20.00 + VAT*, we can complete the GMR on your behalf.
Find out more about GMRs.
* Excluding any other chargeable bank fees to the applicant.
Customs Procedures Consultancy Service
To help UK businesses navigate the trading landscape, LCCI has enlisted a panel of trusted advisers to provide clarity and offer guidance on a wide range of related subjects. Our in-house Customs Procedures experts work closely with HMRC to ensure companies stay compliant with the latest rules and regulations. To learn more about our expert advice service, please visit our International Trade and Business Hub.
You must have a GB EORI number and be registered for Customs Declarations Services.
No, you do not need to be VAT registered.
You can pay customs directly via your Cash Account in CDS or you can pay us first and we will pay customs on your behalf.
Given that you have been onboarded/registered with us, we recommend that you advise us before the goods have been picked up by the Haulier.
If the goods are not selected by customs for any inspection, goods could clear within minutes of arrival to the UK. However, if there any errors or inspections due, these could vary and take from few hours up to weeks. However, the Customs Declarations team are here to support you throughout the process by keeping you up to date at all times.
Please find information on the following links:
Removal Association website to get further support on your requirements
Detailed information on how to move goods between the UK and EU.
When importing into the UK, you can use the import duty calculator on-line service.
For other countries, you can refer to the country of destination tariff.
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International Trade Training Courses
Designed to develop your staff’s skills in international trade procedures and promotion – courses cover topics such as international VAT, trade documents, and letters of credit.