Customs clearance is the official process of moving goods through HMRC customs control when importing into or exporting from the United Kingdom. Every commercial shipment requires a customs declaration — a legally binding document confirming what goods are moving, their value, origin, and applicable duties.

Without a correctly submitted declaration, your goods will not be released at the border. Errors can result in delays, penalties, or goods held by Border Force. At HC-Customs, we take full ownership of the process on your behalf.

• Import Declarations (C88/E2) — Full entry processing for all goods arriving into the UK, covering all import procedures, reliefs and suspensions.
• Export Declarations (EX) — Compliant export entries submitted to CDS before your goods depart the UK.
• Safety & Security (ENS/EXS) — Mandatory pre-arrival and pre-departure notifications for all goods crossing the GB border.
• Goods Movement Reference (GMR) — Created for hauliers at GVMS ports including Dover, Eurotunnel, and Holyhead.
• Commodity Code Classification — Accurate HS and UK Trade Tariff codes to prevent misdeclaration penalties.
• Customs Procedure Codes (CPC) — Correct codes applied to maximise any duty reliefs or special procedures you are entitled to.
• Duty & VAT Calculation — Transparent upfront calculation of all import charges before your goods arrive.
• Deferment Account — Entries submitted against your duty deferment account to improve cash flow.

Step 1 — Send Us Your Documents
Commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading or airway bill, and any licences needed. We will confirm exactly what is required.

Step 2 — We Classify and Check
We verify commodity codes against the UK Trade Tariff, check import controls, calculate duty and VAT, and confirm the correct customs procedure.

Step 3 — Declaration Submitted to HMRC
We submit your declaration to HMRC CDS and confirm once accepted with duties calculated.

Step 4 — Goods Released
We notify you and your freight forwarder immediately so collection or delivery can proceed without delay.

• HMRC-authorised customs intermediary — Fully registered and compliant with all UK customs legislation.
• Fast accurate declarations — Submitted promptly to avoid demurrage or storage charges at ports.
• Compliance-first — Every declaration checked against the UK Trade Tariff before submission.
• Real-time visibility — Full declaration history, duty spend and compliance scores via our Compliance Portal.
• Dedicated support — You will always speak to someone who knows your account and your goods.
• Transparent pricing — No hidden fees. You know the cost before we start.

Do I need a customs agent?
Most businesses use a licensed intermediary like HC-Customs to ensure accuracy. Errors can result in penalties and HMRC audits.

How much does customs clearance cost?
Fees vary by shipment complexity. Contact us for a tailored quote.

What documents do I need?
Commercial invoice, packing list, transport document, and your EORI number. We will confirm exactly what is needed.

What is CDS?
HMRC Customs Declaration Service — the current UK customs platform replacing CHIEF. HC-Customs is fully operational on CDS.

What is a GMR?
A Goods Movement Reference required for hauliers at GVMS ports like Dover and Eurotunnel. We generate these as part of our service.

How long does clearance take?
Most declarations are accepted within hours. We monitor all submissions and respond to HMRC queries immediately.