Frequently Asked Questions

Customs clearance is the mandatory process of obtaining official permission from HMRC to import or export goods. Any shipment crossing the UK border — whether importing from abroad or exporting to another country — requires a formal declaration. Without clearance, your goods cannot be released. Customs Clearance 24 manages this process on your behalf, ensuring fast, accurate declarations 24/7.

With Customs Clearance 24, most import declarations are submitted within hours of receiving your complete documentation. The actual clearance time depends on HMRC processing and any inspection requirements. We operate 24/7 to avoid unnecessary delays at ports and airports.

For imports, you typically need: a commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or airway bill, certificate of origin (where applicable), and an import licence for controlled goods. For exports: a commercial invoice, packing list, and export licence (for controlled goods). Our team will advise you on the exact documentation required for your specific shipment.

Yes. An EORI (Economic Operator Registration and Identification) number is required for any business importing or exporting goods in the UK. It is your identifier in all customs transactions. Customs Clearance 24 can assist you in obtaining your EORI number before your first shipment.

CDS is HMRC's current platform for submitting customs declarations, replacing the previous CHIEF system. All UK importers and exporters must now submit declarations through CDS. Customs Clearance 24 is fully CDS-compliant and handles all submissions on your behalf.

Customs duties are calculated based on the commodity code (HS/TARIC code) assigned to your goods, the customs value, and the country of origin. Import VAT is charged on the total of the customs value plus duty. We calculate all applicable charges accurately to avoid overpayment or penalties.

Yes. Since Brexit, all goods moving between the UK and the EU require full customs declarations. We have extensive experience with post-Brexit procedures, including rules of origin requirements, preference claims and UK Global Tariff applications.

T1 and T2 are transit documents used under the Common Transit Convention (CTC). A T1 document covers goods with non-EU status moving through countries without paying local duties at each border. A T2 document is used for goods with EU Community status. Customs Clearance 24 prepares and manages both types.

Yes. We provide secure UK warehousing and distribution services for imported and exported goods. Our facilities offer temporary customs-supervised storage, allowing efficient management of duty payments and timely onward distribution.

We handle customs clearance at all major UK seaports and airports including Felixstowe, Dover, Southampton, London Gateway, Heathrow, Gatwick, Manchester and more. Contact us to confirm coverage for your specific route.