What Is Customs Clearance?
Customs clearance is the process of getting your goods approved by UK customs (HMRC) so they can enter the country legally. It involves:
- Declaring what the goods are
- Paying any duty and VAT owed
- Presenting the correct paperwork
- Passing any inspections
Until clearance is complete, your goods sit in a port or airport customs zone.
Who Handles Customs Clearance?
You have three options:
| Option | How It Works | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Direct to HMRC | You make the declaration yourself using CHIEF or CDS | Large importers with in-house customs teams |
| Customs broker | A specialist makes the declaration on your behalf | Most SMEs |
| Freight forwarder | Your forwarder (like Carrgo) handles transport + clearance | Importers who want one point of contact |
What Paperwork Do You Need?
- Commercial Invoice — Shows what you're buying, from whom, and for how much.
- Packing List — Lists what's in each box, weight and dimensions.
- Bill of Lading / Air Waybill — Proof of shipment from the carrier.
- EORI Number — Your UK business import ID. How to get one.
- Commodity Code — The HS code for your product. How to find it.
- Certificate of Origin — Sometimes required for preferential duty rates.
- Import Licence — Required for restricted goods (food, chemicals, electronics, etc.).
The Customs Clearance Process Step by Step
Step 1: Arrival. Your shipment arrives at a UK port or airport.
Step 2: Pre-clearance (optional). A good forwarder submits the declaration before the goods arrive, speeding things up.
Step 3: Declaration submitted. Your broker or forwarder submits the customs declaration via CDS (Customs Declaration Service).
Step 4: Duty and VAT payment. If not using Postponed VAT Accounting, duty and VAT are paid at this stage.
Step 5: Customs check (if selected). HMRC may inspect the shipment. This is random or risk-based.
Step 6: Release. Once cleared, the goods are released for delivery to your warehouse.
How Long Does Customs Clearance Take?
| Scenario | Typical Time |
|---|---|
| Standard sea freight, no inspection | 1–2 days |
| Air freight, no inspection | Same day or next day |
| Selected for inspection | +2–5 days |
| Missing paperwork | Delayed until resolved |
Common Causes of Customs Delays
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Wrong commodity code | Double-check before shipping |
| Missing commercial invoice | Always include a detailed invoice |
| EORI not provided | Apply before you import |
| Duty/VAT unpaid | Set up PVA or ensure funds available |
| Restricted goods without licence | Check licensing requirements first |
Customs Clearance Costs
- Customs declaration fee: £25–£75 per declaration (varies by broker).
- Inspection fee: £50–£150 if HMRC opens your container.
- Port storage: Charged if goods sit too long before clearance.
Tips for Smooth Clearance
- Use a reputable forwarder who submits declarations early.
- Get your paperwork right the first time — don't guess at codes or values.
- Be accurate on your commercial invoice — under-declaring value is fraud.
- Check if your goods need a licence before you ship.
- Ask about pre-clearance — it can save days.
Need customs clearance support? Carrgo handles declarations, duty payments and delivery in one service. See our customs clearance service or request a quote.
Disclaimer: This guide is for general information only and is not tax, legal or customs advice. Fees shown are typical ranges — always confirm current requirements and charges with GOV.UK and your customs agent.