Customs clearance is the critical final step when importing goods into a UK port, yet it’s a point where costly delays frequently occur. For any business that relies on importing goods, such hold ups can mean storage fees, broken supply chains and disappointed customers.
As a trusted customs clearance agency, we can support you to ensure a seamless customs experience, avoiding the all-too-common pitfalls that cause stressful and expensive delays at UK ports.
What causes delays at UK ports?
Why do so many shipments get stuck in customs? The reality is that since Brexit, customs requirements have become more complex and scrutiny has increased. This means customs clearance in UK ports is often delayed by the kind of small, avoidable errors we at CLA UK can help you avoid:
Documentation errors and incomplete paperwork
This is one of the most frequent reasons for a shipment being held back. Customs authorities require precise and complete documentation. Missing commercial invoices, incomplete packing lists or incorrect Economic Operators Registration and Identification (EORI) numbers will bring the clearance process to a halt until the paperwork is corrected.
Incorrect HS / commodity codes
Every product imported into the UK must be classified with a specific Harmonised System (HS) code. This code determines the rate of duty and tax payable and using the wrong code can lead to incorrect duty payments. In turn, this will trigger a full inspection and result in significant delays while your goods wait to be re-classified.
Missing licences or permits for regulated goods
Are you importing goods that are restricted or regulated, such as certain foods, chemicals or electronics? These items often require special licences or permits. Failing to secure these in advance is a guaranteed way to have your shipment stopped by border officials.
Duty, VAT or tax payment issues
Customs duty and VAT must be paid or accounted for before your goods can be released. Any issues with payment, such as incorrect value declarations or delays in transferring funds will prevent clearance from being granted.
Random or risk-based inspections
Even if all your paperwork is in order, your shipment can still be selected for a random physical inspection. While you cannot prevent random checks, the risk of further delay increases if your declarations contain errors or raise red flags with customs authorities.
Port congestion
During peak seasons or at particularly busy ports, the sheer volume of goods can lead to backlogs. Even compliant shipments can face delays simply due to the queue of containers waiting to be processed. However, while this kind of delay is inevitable from time to time, it is unlikely to cause as much of an issue when you have the peace of mind achieved when working with a customs clearance agent.
What does a customs clearance agency do to prevent delays?
So, as a customs clearance agency, how do we prevent these common problems? In a nutshell, we act as your expert representative, liaising directly with customs authorities to ensure your shipment meets all legal requirements.
Here’s how our expert customs clearance service directly address the causes of delays:
- Document preparation and verification: We meticulously check your commercial invoice, packing list and other essential documents are accurate and complete before submission.
- Accurate HS Code Classification: With our comprehensive knowledge of customs tariffs, we check the HS Code classification, ensuring the right amount of duty is paid, avoiding re-classification issues.
- Licence and permit management: We can identify if your goods require special licences and guide you through the application process, ensuring everything is in place before your shipment arrives.
- Timely submission and pre-lodgement: A major advantage is that as your customs clearance brokers, we can submit your declarations to HMRC’s systems before the vessel docks. This ‘pre-lodgement’ means customs can often clear the goods before they are even unloaded, significantly speeding up the process.
- Duty and VAT handling: We manage the calculation and payment of any duties and taxes, ensuring there are no financial delays.
- Liaison with authorities: If customs have a query, your agent is the first point of contact. Our experience allows us to resolve issues quickly and efficiently, often without you needing to get involved.
By managing these critical details, we ensure your entry is compliant, professional, and processed as smoothly as possible.
Scenarios where a customs clearance agency makes all the difference
Still wondering if you need a customs clearance agency? Consider these common situations where professional support is invaluable:
- First-time importer: If you have no experience with customs, an agent can guide you through the entire process and prevent costly beginner’s mistakes.
- Importer of regulated goods: When dealing with products that need licences or certificates, an expert’s knowledge is crucial for ensuring compliance.
- High volume importer: If you ship frequently, an agency can streamline your entire customs process, saving you significant time and administrative burden.
- Urgent or time-sensitive shipments: For just-in-time supply chains or urgent deliveries, the cost of a delay far outweighs the fee for an agent who can ensure a swift clearance.
In each of these cases, the risk of going it alone in terms of time, cost and stress is high. As your agency, we provide the expertise and peace of mind to mitigate that risk effectively.
Alternatives: Can you go through customs without an agency?
It is technically possible for businesses to self-clear their goods without the support of customs clearance brokers. However, it comes with significant challenges.
You would need to have a thorough understanding of HS codes, import licensing and documentation requirements. The risk of making a mistake is high and errors can lead to delays, fines, or even seizure of your goods. While it might seem like a way to save money on occasional, low-value imports, the time and compliance burden often makes it impractical for regular business shipments. For most businesses, the expertise and efficiency of a professional agency pay for themselves.
How CLA UK can help you
At CLA UK, we provide a complete customs clearance service designed to make your import process seamless and predictable. As an Authorised Economic Operator (AEO), our processes are recognised by HMRC as secure and compliant, meaning our clients’ shipments are less likely to be stopped for inspection.
We combine transport and customs services into one efficient package. Our dedicated team manages everything for you:
- Expertise and compliance knowledge: We have proven experience with UK customs regulations, post-Brexit rules, and different types of goods. Our Authorised Economic Operator (AEO) accreditation proves our reliability and compliance.
- Accurate classification: Our experts correctly classify your goods to ensure full compliance.
- Documentation handling and accuracy: Our comprehensive and meticulous approach to paperwork underpins our service.
- Pre-lodgement and timely submission: Offering pre-lodgement services is one of the most effective ways we avoid port-side delays.
- Payment handling: Our clear and efficient system is essential in managing duty and VAT payments.
- Communication and responsiveness: We pride ourselves on keeping you informed with a named contact who is easy to reach at all times.
- Track record and port coverage: We have a good reputation and experience across a wide network of UK ports.
Whether you are a first-time importer or a business with complex, high-volume needs, we have the expertise to facilitate customs clearance in UK ports without delay.
FAQs
Do I always need a customs agency, or can I clear customs on my own?
While you can self-clear, it’s risky and time-consuming unless you have thorough customs knowledge. For most businesses, an agency is the safest and most efficient option.
What documentation do I need to avoid delays at UK ports?
Typically, you will need a commercial invoice, a packing list, the Bill of Lading and an EORI number. Depending on your goods, you may also need certificates of origin or specific import licences.
How early should I submit paperwork to avoid delays?
Ideally, your customs clearance agency should pre-lodge the declaration before the shipment arrives at the UK port. Providing documents as soon as the Bill of Lading is available is best practice.
What happens if I misclassify goods or make a mistake?
A mistake can cause your shipment to be held for inspection, leading to fines from HMRC and payment of back duty. In serious cases, goods can be seized.
Can an agency help even if I only import small shipments?
Yes. Many agencies, including CLA UK, handle single or occasional shipments. The expertise is just as valuable for smaller imports, as the risks of delays and non-compliance remain the same.
Ready to clear customs without the hassle?
Delays at UK ports are a common frustration for importers, but they are not inevitable. Most hold ups stem from administrative errors and compliance issues that can be prevented with the right expertise. Using a professional customs clearance agency is one of the most effective strategies for ensuring your goods move swiftly through the border. If you are serious about maintaining a reliable and efficient supply chain, let us handle the complexities of customs for you.
Contact CLA UK to discover more about how our expert customs clearance services can save you time and money. Call us on +44 (0) 116 279 0930 or fill in our contact form.