The existing UK customs declaration platform Customs Handling Imports and Export Freight (CHIEF) is being replaced by the Customs Declaration Service (CDS).
For import declarations and the movement of goods into the United Kingdom (UK), the switch over to CDS from CHIEF took place on 30 September 2022.
For UK exports, the switch over from CDS from CHIEF was due to take place on 30 November 2023, having already been postponed from 31 March 2023.
HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) have now provided an update on the implementation of CDS for UK exporters.
New key dates for CDS migration for export declarations
After listening to feedback from industry and trade bodies, a phased approach will take place for UK businesses who export.
During the first phase, HMRC and its software developers will support selected high-volume declarants to move to CDS for exports by Thursday 30 November 2023. Declarants who are able to move to CDS by Thursday 30 November 2023 will be contacted by HMRC or their software developer in September.
The second stage of this approach will see all other businesses move to CDS for exports by Saturday 30 March 2024. This new approach will enable HMRC and delivery partners more time to test and better support export declarants to make a smooth migration to CDS.
Sarah Hartley, Director of Border Change Delivery at HMRC said: Having worked closely with our industry partners, we’re introducing a phased approach for moving export declarations to CDS. Those businesses who have the IT functionality in place are still able to move across to CDS by Thursday 30 November 2023, ahead of the majority who will now migrate at the beginning of 2024. Full guidance, resources and support will be available for all declarants to ensure the transition across to CDS is as smooth as possible for every business.
Robert Windsor, Member Policy and Compliance Director at the British International Freight Association (BIFA) said: On behalf of BIFA Members, we are looking forward to the final stage of the implementation of CDS and bringing export transitioning to its successful conclusion.
What UK Exporters need to do now
If you have not already done so, you can carry out the following steps to prepare your business to make export declarations through the CDS:
Register for a Government Gateway account
Most businesses will already have a Government Gateway account to access their business tax account. You should use this account to access the CDS.
If you do not have one, you can register for a Government Gateway account.
You must have an EORI number
Most businesses moving goods in and out of the UK already have one. If you don't have one, you can apply for an EORI beginning with ‘GB’.
Register for CDS
Use this link to register for the Customs Declaration Service this can take up to 5 working days.
You'll need your Government Gateway user ID and password as well as:
- Your GB EORI number.
- Your Unique Tax Reference (UTR) number.
- Business address held on HMRC’s records.
- Your National Insurance number (if you're an individual or sole trader).
- The date you started your business.
If you have any queries or have any questions relating to the CDS migration, please contact us at Tudor International Freight, on 0333 1234 747 or email sales@tudorfreight.com.
About Us - Tudor International Freight
Established in Horsforth, Leeds, back in 1991, we are a logistics company who are experts in road, air and sea freight. We transport goods to most major cities, towns and suburbs across all 6 continents. We go over and above to ensure that our client’s products, goods and cargo are transported around the world safely and successfully. We are a family business, based in Horsforth, Leeds, West Yorkshire and are passionate about the local culture; which is why we are sponsors of the Horsforth Horse.