How Global Import Agent Can Help
Importing to the UK after Brexit requires expertise in HMRC regulations, the Customs Declaration Service (CDS), and UK Global Tariff classifications. Our dedicated import specialists handle every aspect of the UK import process, from initial EORI registration to final customs clearance.
We specialise in complex imports requiring FDA registration, UKCA marking compliance, and specialist documentation.
Our team manages your customs declarations through the Customs Declaration Service (CDS) (GOV.UK: Customs Declaration Service), ensuring accurate commodity code classification and optimal duty rates under current UK trade agreements.
- EORI Registration & Compliance – Complete EORI application process and ongoing customs compliance management
- Customs Declarations & Clearance – Expert Customs Declaration Service (CDS) submissions with accurate commodity code classification
- Duty Optimisation & Documentation – UK Global Tariff analysis, duty relief schemes, and complete import documentation
Post-Brexit UK Import Expertise
Since Brexit, importing to the UK requires full customs procedures for all goods, including those from EU countries. We navigate the complexities of the UK Global Tariff system, rules of origin requirements, and new documentation standards that replaced simplified EU procedures.
Our expertise covers specialist areas including Inward Processing Relief schemes, ATA Carnet procedures for temporary imports, and UKCA marking compliance for regulated products. We ensure your imports meet all HMRC requirements whilst minimising duty exposure through legitimate relief mechanisms and preferential tariff applications.
- EORI number registration and validation
- Commodity code research and classification
- UK Global Tariff rate optimisation
- Import licence and permit applications
- UKCA marking compliance verification
What We Arrange And Manage End-To-End
1) EORI Registration & Import Setup
We handle your Economic Operators Registration and Identification (EORI) number application with HMRC. You may need an EORI number to move goods between Great Britain and any other country, including the EU (GOV.UK: Get an EORI number).
- Complete EORI application and validation process
- Subscribe to the Customs Declaration Service (CDS) (GOV.UK: Subscribe to the Customs Declaration Service)
- Establish duty deferment account for cash flow management
2) Product Classification & Documentation
Accurate commodity code classification determines your import duty rates under the UK Global Tariff and ensures compliance with product-specific regulations.
- Research the correct commodity codes for duty calculation (GOV.UK: Trade Tariff)
- Prepare certificates of origin and commercial documentation
- Arrange product testing and UKCA marking where required
- Obtain import licences for restricted or controlled goods
3) Freight Management & Transit
We coordinate your international freight movement via air, sea, road or rail, ensuring goods arrive at the correct UK port or airport for efficient customs clearance.
4) Customs Declaration & Clearance
Our customs experts submit accurate declarations through the Customs Declaration Service (CDS), managing the clearance process from arrival notification to goods release by Border Force.
5) Duty Payment & Final Delivery
We calculate and arrange payment of import duties and import VAT.
Import VAT is charged at the rate that applies to your goods (the standard rate is 20%, GOV.UK: VAT rates) on the customs value plus incidental costs such as transport and insurance to the first UK destination, and any Customs Duty (GOV.UK: VAT on imports).
We arrange this, ensuring compliance with HMRC requirements before arranging final delivery to your premises.
Complete UK Import Service Package
EORI Registration Support
Full EORI number application process and ongoing compliance management with HMRC systems.
Commodity Code Research
Expert classification using UK Global Tariff database to minimise duty exposure and ensure compliance.
Customs Declaration Management
Professional Customs Declaration Service (CDS) submissions with accurate documentation and timing.
Import Licensing
Specialist permit applications for restricted goods including food supplements and regulated products.
Duty & VAT Calculation
Transparent cost breakdowns with duty optimisation through legitimate relief schemes where applicable.
End-to-End Logistics
Complete freight coordination from supplier to UK delivery including customs bonded storage if required.
What Is the UK Import Process?
The UK import process involves registering with HMRC as an Economic Operator, classifying goods under the UK Global Tariff system, and submitting customs declarations through the Customs Declaration Service (CDS). Post-Brexit changes mean all imports now require full customs procedures, including goods from EU countries.
Key requirements include obtaining an EORI number, accurate commodity code classification, payment of import VAT (standard rate 20%, GOV.UK: VAT rates) and any applicable duties, and compliance with UK product standards including UKCA marking for regulated goods.
Import duty rates depend on the commodity code of your goods, and you can check the rate in the UK Trade Tariff (GOV.UK). Before-you-ship checklist:
- Valid EORI number registered with HMRC
- Confirmed commodity codes and duty rates
- Import licences for restricted goods obtained
- Commercial invoices and certificates of origin prepared
- UKCA marking compliance verified for regulated products
Our process:
- Submit pre-arrival customs declaration
- Coordinate with Border Force for inspection if required
- Calculate and arrange duty and VAT payment
- Obtain customs clearance and goods release
- Arrange final delivery from port or airport
Deep understanding of UK Global Tariff classifications, CDS system requirements, and UKCA marking regulations. We navigate complex post-Brexit procedures that catch out inexperienced operators. Clear breakdowns of all costs including duties, VAT, and handling fees before shipment.
We identify legitimate duty relief opportunities through schemes like Inward Processing Relief and preferential trade agreements. Your assigned import specialist manages every shipment from EORI registration to final delivery. Direct access to customs experts who understand your specific product requirements and compliance obligations.
Our import specialists provide transparent quotes covering all duties, VAT, and handling charges, plus dedicated support through every step of the process. Contact us today for a detailed consultation on your specific import requirements.
Our service: UK food and beverage import support