Customs
Our own in house customs teams manage handling your customs clearance, from general customs entries to consultancy on every scale.
Your local Customs Broker
Global trade can be complicated, but we're here to make it easier. Our in-house Mainfreight customs team works closely with our operations team to help keep your shipments moving smoothly and on time.
Smooth, end‑to‑end border clearance
To help ensure a smooth and efficient clearance process, please keep the following in mind:
Commercial Invoice
Please make sure the commercial invoice includes: a description of the goods with HS codes, gross and net weight, packaging details, packing list, item and total values, currency, origin and destination countries, importer/exporter details, bank information, Incoterms, and the issue date.
CMR Consignment Note
For shipments to non-EU countries, always use an original CMR consignment note. Textile certificates under the former Multi-Fibre Agreement are no longer required, so there is no need to request or provide these documents for import or export shipments.
EORI Number
An EORI (Economic Operators Registration and Identification) number is the customs ID used for trade with customs authorities. Since January 31, 2010, all companies involved in customs activities must have an EORI number for customs declarations and communication.
Generalized System of Preferences
To benefit from reduced or zero import duties, you may need a GSP Form A, EUR.1, or ATR certificate. The required document depends on where the goods were made and can help lower the import duties payable.
Limited Fiscal Representation
Copilot said: Limited Fiscal Representation lets goods enter the EU without paying import VAT upfront, improving cash flow. It’s often used when goods arrive in one EU country but are sold to a company in another. We can act as your fiscal representative.
Veterinary Products
Veterinary products include live animals, animal-based products such as meat, fish and feed, and certain food items like vegetables, dried fruit, spices, nuts and seeds. These goods often require extra documents, health checks, and inspections by customs and regulatory authorities.
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Enquiry
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Ask a questionFrequently Asked Questions about our Customs Clearance in the United Kingdom
Find answers to the most common questions about our custom clearance to help you better understand how we support your supply chain needs.
Do I need a CMR for non-EU shipments?
Yes. An original CMR consignment note is required for road shipments to non-EU countries. It serves as the official transport document and helps ensure the shipment can move smoothly through customs procedures.
Do veterinary or food products require special customs checks?
Yes. Products such as live animals, meat, fish, feed, vegetables, spices, nuts, and seeds may require additional documents, health certificates, and inspections by customs and other regulatory authorities before import approval.
What information must be on a commercial invoice?
A commercial invoice should include a clear goods description with HS codes, weights, packaging details, shipment value, currency, origin and destination countries, importer and exporter details, bank information, Incoterms, and the invoice issue date.
What is an EORI number?
An EORI number is a unique customs identification number used when trading internationally. It is required for customs declarations and communication with customs authorities, helping ensure efficient processing of imports and exports.
What is Limited Fiscal Representation?
Limited Fiscal Representation allows goods to enter the EU without paying import VAT upfront. This can improve cash flow when goods are imported into one EU country and sold in another EU member state.
When do I need a EUR.1, ATR, or Form A certificate?
These certificates may help reduce or eliminate import duties. The correct certificate depends on the country where the goods were produced and the trade agreement that applies to the shipment.