HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is writing to businesses to tell them about a change to the UK’s customs systems.
The letter includes information about the work under way to move to a single UK customs platform - the Customs Declaration Service - and outlines what businesses need to do to prepare for the change, and what help, and guidance is available to support them through the process.
The Customs Declaration Service will become the UK single customs platform after 31 March 2023, replacing the Customs Handling Import and Export Freight (CHIEF) system. Ahead of the complete closure, the import declaration function will be withdrawn on 30 September this year.
To help businesses and agents prepare for the Customs Declaration Service HMRC has published some key steps traders can follow.
You can also use helplines and webchat to contact HMRC.
If businesses need extra help and guidance to meet their customs obligations they can:
- watch videos and recorded webinars on topics like imports, exports, rules of origin, and import or export declarations
- call the Customs and International Trade helpline on 0300 322 9434 - the helpline is available from 8am to 10pm Monday to Friday, and 8am to 4pm at weekends
HMRC have published copies of the letters sent to businesses about importing and exporting goods between Great Britain and the EU.