What Is the Customs Declaration Service (CDS)?
The Customs Declaration Service (CDS) is HMRC's current digital platform for submitting all UK customs declarations. It replaced the previous Customs Handling of Import and Export Freight (CHIEF) system, which was decommissioned for imports in October 2022 and for exports in March 2024.
All importers and exporters who submit customs declarations to HMRC must now use CDS. There is no alternative — CHIEF is no longer operational.
Why Was CDS Introduced?
CHIEF was operational for over 25 years and, while reliable, was built on ageing technology. CDS was developed to:
- Provide a more modern, scalable declaration platform
- Support the increased volume of declarations following Brexit
- Enable richer data collection for trade statistics and compliance
- Align with international customs data standards
Key Differences Between CDS and CHIEF
CDS requires significantly more data than CHIEF. Where a CHIEF declaration might require around 40 data fields, a full CDS declaration can require over 70. This additional data includes:
- More detailed goods description and packaging information
- Additional country of origin documentation
- Expanded duty relief procedure codes
- Separate data elements for consignor and consignee information
Do You Need a CDS Account?
If you submit your own customs declarations, yes — you will need to register for CDS access via the Government Gateway. You will also need:
- A Government Gateway account for your business
- Your EORI number (Economic Operator Registration and Identification)
- A duty deferment account (if applicable)
If you use a customs broker like Customs Clearance 24, we handle all CDS submissions on your behalf. You do not need direct CDS access when working with a customs agent.
Common CDS Compliance Challenges
Commodity Codes CDS requires precise commodity codes (HS codes) to classify your goods. Incorrect codes can lead to overpayment of duty, underpayment penalties, or shipment delays. Our team ensures every commodity is correctly classified.
Procedure Codes CDS uses a combination of procedure codes and additional procedure codes to define what happens to your goods. There are hundreds of possible combinations. Getting these wrong can affect your duty liability significantly.
Documentation CDS requires documentary evidence to support declarations — for example, commercial invoices, bills of lading, licences, and certificates. These must be retained and available for audit by HMRC.
How Customs Clearance 24 Helps
At Customs Clearance 24, we are fully CDS-compliant and handle all declaration submissions on behalf of our clients. Our team:
- Verifies and prepares all documentation before submission
- Applies correct commodity codes and procedure codes
- Calculates duty and VAT accurately
- Monitors declaration status and responds to HMRC queries
- Operates 24/7 to avoid delays at ports
Whether you are new to importing or transitioning from a previous customs agent, we make CDS compliance straightforward. Contact us today for a free consultation.