Only a few weeks remain for businesses importing products to switch over to the UK’s new simplified customs system.
From October 1 of this year, import declarations must be filed using the new Customs Declaration Service, which will replace the Customs Handling Import and Export Freight (CHIEF) system.
All declarants and dealers who will be impacted by the shift are being urged by HMRC in a letter to use the assistance now available and switch to the Customs Declaration Service.
Check to see whether your company is prepared to utilise the Customs Declaration Service if you have customs agents.
Without a customs agent, individuals must set themselves up to make their own declarations using system-compatible software.
Director of Program and Operational Delivery for Borders and Trade at HMRC, Julie Etheridge, stated:
There is barely one month left until companies must import goods through the Customs Declaration Service. Businesses that have been waiting to relocate must start the process right once to avoid potential business interruption.
A customs agent who is prepared to utilise the system and is able to make declarations on their behalf should be consulted by anybody who is unsure about switching to the Customs Declaration Service.
Import declarations for bringing products into the UK have been done through the Customs Declaration Service since its inception in 2018.
The service will replace the 30-year-old CHIEF system, and by giving companies a more streamlined, user-friendly system that provides better capability, it represents a considerable boost.
This is the first step towards the government’s goal of a Single Trade Window, which will help companies significantly by reducing the number of forms they must fill out, improving the usage of data across the government, and improving the user experience.
Declarants are being contacted by phone and email to let them know what actions they need to do in order to assist all companies and agents get ready for the Customs Declaration Service.
Additional details, such as a Customs Declaration Service toolbox and checklists that outline the procedures merchants must follow, are available on GOV.UK.
Traders may use live customer support services on GOV.UK and register for or confirm access to the Customs Declaration Service for extra assistance.