Customs declarations are changing: it’s time to prepare

Accountant KAREN PORTER from Page Kirk outlines the imminent deadlines that any business involved in import/export needs to know.

The final countdown to the Customs Declaration Service (CDS) replacing The Customs Handling of Import and Export Freight (CHIEF) has begun. CDS will become the UK's single customs platform with effect from 31 March 2023 and will replace CHIEF, which has been running for 25 years. This is due to new EU legislation, which has introduced important changes to the information needed for both import and export declarations in connection with the valuation of the goods and the parties involved in the transactions.

The aim of CDS is to provide a more secure and stable platform, which will grow in line with Government trade plans, whilst delivering savings for the taxpayer.

The deadlines set by the Government for this are:

30th September 2022, when they expect CDS to handle all import transactions.

31st March 2023, when the deadline for export transactions is reached.

To avoid delays and issues at the border, preparation work by businesses should now be well under way.

If you haven't already registered for CDS, you can do so by using your business Government Gateway Account. There is also a useful Customs Declaration Service Toolkit on HMRC's website. If you are already signed up to PIVA (Postponement Import VAT Accounting) though, you will already be registered.

Find out more by contacting us here at Page Kirk on 0115 955 5500 or by emailing enquiries@pagekirk.co.uk