Global Import Agent

UK Importer of Record Services

UK Importer of Record services for food, drink and healthcare products.

· By the Global Import Agent team
Overview

Service overview

We act as your UK Importer of Record, handling customs declarations, VAT and compliance paperwork with HMRC, DEFRA and the MHRA, even without a UK entity.

Export-ready goods prepared inside a warehouse

Why this service matters

  • Non-UK companies importing regulated goods need a UK Importer of Record.
  • Without one, goods may be blocked at the border, inspected or rejected.
  • Risks include clearance delays, HMRC fines and confiscation at UK ports.

Acting as Your Official Importer of Record

We act as your Importer of Record for food, drink and healthcare products imported into the United Kingdom.

  • Legal representation for customs and regulatory communications
  • Use of our UK address for customs declarations
  • Ideal for companies without a UK business registration
Cargo containers moving through an international port
IoR & Other Services

UK Importer of Record Services

DEFRA, FSA & MHRA Regulatory Compliance

We check your products against UK standards for food safety, veterinary import rules and medical devices.

  • DEFRA compliance for animal-derived or organic products
  • UK Food Standards Agency (FSA) import registration
  • MHRA conformity for medical devices (UKCA marking, post-Brexit)

UK Customs Declarations & VAT Handling

We manage customs clearance through HMRC, with full declaration support.

  • CDS (Customs Declaration Service) entries
  • Professional HS code classification and evaluation
  • VAT deferment or payment through our deferment account

UK Labelling & Packaging Compliance

All goods entering the UK must follow UK packaging and labelling rules, and we check yours.

  • UK-specific ingredient labelling and allergens
  • Medical device labelling guidance under UK MDR
  • Organic and nutritional fact panel validation

Post-Import Recordkeeping & Compliance Support

We help you stay compliant with UK regulations after clearance.

  • Secure archiving of import and compliance documentation
  • Preparation for audits and traceability requests
  • Post-market support including recalls and incident reporting

Resolution of Border Rejections & Compliance Issues

If HMRC or port health authorities detain your shipment, we work with them to resolve it.

  • Liaison with customs and port health teams
  • Re-submission of corrected documentation
  • Corrective action planning to restore compliance

Ongoing compliance support

  • Time-Saving

    We take on customs declarations and paperwork, so you can sell in the UK without a local entity.

  • Regulatory Assurance

    Products checked against UK import, food safety and labelling requirements.

  • Peace of Mind

    Reduce the risk of border delays, HMRC fines and confiscated goods.

What you'll need

Using our UK address for customs? Prepare these first.

  • Product classificationInformation for HS code classification.
  • VAT arrangementsDeferment or payment for import VAT.
  • UK labelsIngredients and allergens in UK format.
  • Regulator requirementsAny DEFRA, FSA or MHRA obligations for your product.
Free tool
Client feedback

Trusted support, in our clients’ own words.

“Global Import Agent have successfully worked with me to land product in the U.S and remain compliant for FDA regulations. I'm really happy with their response times, and easy to use tech platform that facilitates the process.”
Jane MckayAstute Beverages
Frequently asked questions

UK Importer of Record Services

Requirements vary by product and destination. These answers outline the starting point for the questions we receive most often.

Ask our team

What is an Importer of Record (IOR) for the UK?

A UK-based legal representative who assumes responsibility for customs declarations, VAT, and regulatory compliance.

Who needs an Importer of Record in the UK?

Any non-UK company importing regulated goods, including food, supplements, and medical devices.

Can I import goods into the UK without a UK business entity?

Yes — by appointing a qualified IOR such as our service, you can import legally and efficiently.

What are the consequences of not having an IOR?

Delays, customs detentions, fines, or refusal of entry for your goods.

How quickly can I appoint an IOR?

In most cases, we can onboard you in 1–3 business days after receiving documentation.

Discuss your requirements

Talk through your product and target market with our team.

Consultation

Tell us what you need to import.

Share your product, target market and compliance question. A member of our team will respond promptly.

Scope your product and target market
Identify the applicable regulatory route
Receive a clear proposal and next steps