Understanding UK Customs Declaration Filing Deadlines
Businesses involved in exporting goods and customs agents who need to transition to the new Customs Declaration Service (CDS).
Provides information on the upcoming deadline for submitting export declarations through the Customs Declaration Service (CDS), and explains the transition from the CHIEF system.
Understanding the deadline and requirements ensures businesses meet the compliance deadline, avoid delays in shipments, and successfully transition to the CDS system.
A reminder that businesses must submit all export declarations through the Customs Declaration Service (CDS) by 4 June 2024.
Key Dates and Changes
Businesses exporting goods have less than one month left to transition to the CDS, HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) announced today. Export declarations must be submitted through CDS from 4 June 2024, when it replaces the Customs Handling Import and Export Freight (CHIEF) system for all trade declarations.
What is the Customs Declaration Service (CDS)?
The CDS provides businesses with a more user-friendly, streamlined system with greater functionality. It has been running since 2018 for import declarations, and more than 117 million customs declarations have already been submitted through CDS.
Steps to Transition to CDS
HMRC is working closely with the border industry and directly contacting all declarants and traders to urge them to access the available support now and transfer over to CDS.
Businesses with customs agents should ensure their agent is ready to use CDS. Those without a customs agent must prepare to make their own declarations using software that works with the system.
What You Need to Do
Traders can access a range of support tools and resources to help them transition smoothly:
- Visit GOV.UK for further information, including the CDS toolkit and checklists, which break down the individual steps traders need to take.
- Subscribe to CDS alerts to stay informed about updates and deadlines.
- Access the free Trader Dress Rehearsal to practice submitting declarations and ensure readiness before the official deadline.
Real-world Application
Ensuring the correct transition to CDS is crucial for businesses to maintain compliance with customs regulations. Failing to submit declarations through the correct system could result in delays, fines, or penalties, affecting the ability to export goods smoothly.
Risks and Consequences
If businesses miss the deadline or fail to transition to CDS in time, they could face:
- Delays in exports – resulting in missed deadlines or disruption to the supply chain.
- Potential fines and penalties – for failing to submit declarations through the correct system.
- Non-compliance with new customs rules – leading to further operational issues.
Next Steps
Businesses must act now to ensure they meet the 4 June 2024 deadline. Take advantage of the available resources, check if your customs agent is ready for CDS, and practice submitting declarations using the available tools.
Managing HMRC Customs Requirements Correctly in London
Meeting customs declaration deadlines is crucial for businesses involved in international trade, as missing them can result in delays and fines. Cigma Accounting, based in Kingston upon Thames in London, helps businesses navigate the complexities of customs declarations, ensuring they comply with HMRC deadlines and regulations with expert support from our experienced accounting services London team.
Businesses involved in importing or exporting goods, particularly those operating around Surbiton and Thames Ditton, need to ensure they meet these deadlines to avoid costly penalties. With physical offices across London, Cigma Accounting provides trusted advice to help businesses manage their customs declarations effectively and stay compliant with UK tax regulations.
