Customs Clearance Agents
Our customs importing and exporting solutions offer a clear path for all your international trade requirements in and out of the UK.
Customs Clearance Agency for UK Road, Sea Ports and EU Customs Borders
We leverage our expertise in UK import and export customs processes and the many requirements of EU countries to offer a customs clearance service to facilitate smooth port clearance.
The service is designed to eliminate the common challenges importers and exporters experience when trying to navigate the complexities of government controls. While the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreements allow hauliers to continue operating across borders, businesses are dealing with an ever-changing regulatory landscape. That’s why in addition to our freight, warehousing, and full trailer solutions, we’re here to ensure your shipments are cleared cost-effectively and efficiently when moving in and out of the UK.
CUSTOMS CLEARANCE MADE SIMPLE
Dedicated Account Managers
To ensure seamless communication, every client is assigned a dedicated account manager who understands specific needs and is always available to assist.
Accredited Expertise
We have direct links to the HMRC Customs (CDS), and as an AEO accredited company, we offer expert customs clearance services to ensure the smoothest transit into the UK.
Comprehensive Port Coverage
Our end-to-end customs services provide customs clearance at all UK ports for both Roll on Roll off (RORO) and inventory linked sailings.
As a full-service customs clearance agency, we provide Import & Export CDS Customs Entries and T1 Transit Declarations for:
Importers
Exporters
Transport companies
Freight forwarders
International movers
Removal companies
Private clients
Packaging
Food products
Plants and plant products
Animal by products
General cargo
…and much more.
AEO Accreditation Benefits
As holders of both the Authorised Economic Operator Customs Simplification (AEOC) and Authorised Economic Operator Security and Safety (AEOS), our Customs Clearance Service provides you with the following benefits:
Your consignments receive priority treatment for customs controls
Reciprocal arrangements and mutual recognition
A faster application process for customs simplifications and authorisations
A lower risk score which may reduce the number of checks
T1 Transit Documents
As a trusted UK customs agent we can use our customs transit guarantee to arrange, issue and discharge a transit document (T1) on your behalf to ensure the smooth movement of goods between the UK and the EU, as well as from ports to temporary storage facilities. This means you can rest assured you won’t be over-paying duty unnecessarily, which is a common issue due to the complexity and ever-shifting nature of the process.
As members of BIFA, we directly engage with HMRC and Defra about customs updates and changes, so you can feel safe in the knowledge that you won’t be caught out by a procedural change.
T1 Transit Process
Step 1
Initiating at the Office of Departure
The T1 transit process begins at the Office of Departure, where CLA prepares the T1 declaration. The T1 can then either be collected from an Inland Border Facility, Port or one of our Authorised consignor locations. This document is crucial for moving goods under customs control across multiple countries without incurring duties or import VAT.
Step 2
Journey Through Customs Control
Once the T1 declaration is verified, the goods travel under customs control. This ensures that the shipment remains secure and compliant as it passes through various customs territories en route to its destination.
Step 3
Finalising at the Office of Destination
Upon arrival at the Office of Destination, customs officials confirm the receipt of goods and discharge the T1 document, in most cases at the same time as making an import declaration. This step completes the transit procedure, allowing the goods to enter free circulation or continue to their final destination.
What is customs clearance?
Customs clearance is an essential procedure for all goods imported to or exported from the UK. The customs declaration informs HMRC about the products that businesses import or export. The declaration would usually inform HMRC of the nature, value and uses of the goods. At CLA UK, we make these customs clearances on behalf of businesses of all shapes and sizes, from large corporate PLCs to small family run companies to diligently ensure our clients have everything they need to keep their goods moving smoothly. This includes avoiding delays, preventing overpayment of import duties, and eliminating the risk of fines due to incomplete documentation.
Our comprehensive range of services includes import and export declarations, transit accompanying documents (T1), IPAFFS notifications, duty/VAT deferment accounts, and customs consultations. We also have a network of local agents throughout Europe to provide seamless support.
With our extensive operating capacity, we manage over 1,000 full-load movements to and from Europe each month, offering B2B, time-sensitive, replenishment, and bespoke services. We proudly serve many international and global organisations, ensuring reliability when it matters most.
Specialist Declarations
In addition to standard customs clearance, we provide specialist declarations tailored to specific government controls and procedures, including:
- CHED-D – Document preparation for products of animal origin
- *IPAFFS – Notifying the relevant DEFRA body of incoming foods stuff from fruits and vegetables to animal by products.
- Inward & outward processing
- GB ENS (Entry Summary Declaration, also known as a Safety and Security
- Declaration)
- GVMS – Goods Vehicle Movement Service, where we can create a GMR (Goods Movement Reference)
- IPR & OPR (Inward processing and Outward processing) declarations
- IPR diversion declarations
- ATA Carnets
Whether it’s EORI numbers, commodity codes, or navigating complex regulations, our customs clearance agents are here to support you with up-to-date expertise and a commitment to going the extra mile, so you don’t have to.
Why choose us as your customs clearance brokers?
Approachable Experts
Navigating customs regulations can be overwhelming, especially in the post-Brexit landscape. That’s where we come in. As approachable, straight-talking experts, we simplify the process and stay ahead of legislative changes, so you don’t have to.
Compliance You Can Trust
With AEOF accreditation, the highest standard for customs clearance companies, we provide compliance assurances you can rely on. Our expertise ensures your shipments meet all regulatory requirements, no matter how complex the rules.
Clarity and Risk Reduction
We understand that customs rules vary depending on what’s being imported or exported and where it’s going. That’s why we focus on providing clarity, reducing hassle, and minimising risks, so you can trade with confidence.
Smooth Logistics
We understand that customs rules vary depending on what’s being imported or exported and where it’s going. That’s why we focus on providing clarity, reducing hassle, and minimising risks, so you can trade with confidence.
Customs Clearance at UK and EU Ports
Our comprehensive customs clearance service is available at all the following ports:
- Felixstowe
- Birkenhead
- Carrington
- Bromborough
- Runcorn
- Irlam, Manchester Ship Canal
- Tranmere
- Garston
- Salford
- Warrington, Manchester Ship Canal
- Ellesmere Port
- Liverpool
- Heysham
- Eastham
- Groveport
- Flixborough
- Immingham
- Boston
- Gunness Wharf
- Barrow-upon-Humber
- Howdendyke
- Hull
- Keadby
- Grimsby
- Killingholme
- New Holland
- Harwich
- Parkeston Quay, Harwich
- West Thurrock
- Northfleet
- Purfleet
- Barking
- Dagenham
- Tilbury
- Aberdeen
- Thamesport
- Shoreham
- Sheerness
- Inland ETSF
- Great Yarmouth
- Immingham
- Purfleet
- Hull
- Felixstowe
- Killingholme
- Bristol
- Ellesmere Port
- Harwich
- Liverpool
- Kings Lynn
- Port of Tyne
- Cardiff
- Ipswich
- Dagenham
- Inverness
- Avonmouth
- Greenock
- Teesport
- Grangemouth
Benefit from our Customs Clearance Expertise at Origin and Destination
Expertise and in-depth knowledge of both UK import and export customs processes, as well as the varied requirements of countries within the EU, allows us to guide you through the process and cost effectively clear your shipments going into and out of the United Kingdom.
Common Customs Queries
Find answers to your pressing customs-related questions here.
What is a customs clearance agent?
As customs clearance agents our goal is to keep your goods moving smoothly across borders. We handle the essential procedures for goods being imported or exported, ensuring compliance with all regulations. We work to help businesses avoid delays, prevent overpayment of import duties, and minimise the risk of fines by ensuring all documentation is complete and accurate.
Do I need a customs broker in the UK?
In a word – yes. Working with a customs broker is highly recommended due to the complexity and ever-changing nature of UK and EU customs procedures. Navigating import and export regulations, completing declarations accurately, and managing documents such as T1 transit forms all require specialist knowledge. Errors or omissions can easily lead to delays, fines, or even the seizure of goods.
As a trusted UK customs agent, we can arrange, issue, and discharge T1 transit documents on your behalf to ensure the smooth and compliant movement of goods between the UK and the EU, or from ports to temporary storage facilities. This means you won’t face costly mistakes like misdeclarations or overpaid duties, which are common pitfalls for businesses overseeing customs processes themselves.
As members of BIFA, we maintain direct communication with HMRC and Defra, ensuring we are always up to date with the latest regulatory changes. You can feel confident knowing your shipments remain compliant, no matter how frequently the rules shift.
What is a T1 transit document?
A T1 transit document is a customs transit document used within the EU to move non-EU goods (or certain EU goods under specific circumstances) from one location to another within the customs territory of the EU. This allows goods to transit without paying import duties or taxes until they reach their final destination.
The transit document T1 is typically used when goods are imported from outside the EU and need to move through the EU to their final destination. It is also used for goods stored in customs warehouses that are shipped elsewhere without being released into free circulation, or for goods moving through Common Transit countries like Norway, Switzerland, the UK, or Turkey.
The process begins at the Office of Departure, where a customs agent creates a T1 declaration Customs verify the declaration and release the goods under the T1 procedure. During transit, the goods travel under customs seal, passing through multiple countries without paying duties. At the Office of Destination, customs confirm the goods’ arrival and discharge the T1, completing the transit procedure.
A T1 document includes key details such as the Movement Reference Number (MRN), a description and value of the goods, the number of packages, customs offices of departure and destination, transport details, and a guarantee reference to cover potential duties.
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How to notify HMRC of Animal by product imports
Notifying HMRC of Animal By-Product (ABP) imports involves completing the necessary customs declarations and providing accurate details about the shipment. It includes specifying the type of ABP, its intended use and strict compliance with import regulations. Failure to notify HMRC or provide the required documentation can result in delays, fines, or even the seizure of goods. To avoid these consequences, we support you by following all relevant guidelines and submitting the necessary information through the appropriate channels.
How to notify HMRC of plant product imports
Notifying HMRC of plant product imports into the UK involves specific steps to ensure compliance with regulations. Plant products include items such as fruits, vegetables, seeds, live plants, soil, timber, and plant-based foodstuffs. As your UK customs agents, we will determine if your product requires pre-notification or a phytosanitary certificate by checking the UK Plant Health Portal. Most regulated plant products must be pre-notified to UK Plant Health authorities via the IPAFFS system, which generates a CHED-P reference number to include in your customs declaration. Additionally, some products may require a phytosanitary certificate from the exporting country. We then help you submit a customs declaration through the Customs Declaration Service (CDS), including details like the commodity code, origin, value, and CHED-P reference number. We then ensure your goods enter the UK through an approved Border Control Post (BCP) authorised for plant health checks. All these steps are crucial as non-compliance can lead to goods being held, refused entry, destroyed or returned, as well as fines, penalties, and delays in customs clearance.
How do I handle customs duties and taxes?
We provide guidance on calculating and paying duties and taxes, ensuring compliance with all relevant regulations.
How do I get a CHED declaration?
We can support you with the process of obtaining a CHED (Common Health Entry Document) declaration which is necessary for importing animals, animal products and certain plant products into the UK using the IPAFFS system (Import of Products, Animals, Food and Feed System) managed by Defra. As your authorised customs clearance agent, we can register you on the IPAFFS portal as an importer. Once registered, we submit a pre-notification for your consignment, including details such as product type, quantity, origin, transport information, and the Border Control Post (BCP) where the goods will enter. You’ll also need to provide any required certificates, such as health or phytosanitary certificates. After submission, IPAFFS will generate a CHED reference number, which must be included in your customs declaration and presented at the BCP for inspection.
*We can make an IPAFFS (the Import of Products, Animals, Food and Feed system) declaration to notify the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) of plant or animal by-products coming into the UK. This import notification creates a Common Health Entry Document (CHED) number. This IPAFFS notification is in addition to and cross referenced on the import declaration created on CDS, (the Customs Declaration Service) which is more of a financial declaration.