An update on the EU customs situation

As you may have seen in the news, parcel and freight companies are currently experiencing delays to customs clearance following post-Brexit changes. Some services have been temporarily suspended as carriers clear backlogs at their hubs.

Our carriers are working as quickly as possible to resolve this ongoing situation. We are responding swiftly to any updates we receive from them, working through all EU shipments and double-checking data requirements to minimise potential returns.

However, there are some things you can do before shipping to help customs checks run more smoothly.

New requirements for UK-EU customs

To reduce the likelihood of delays at the border, make sure that you have done the following:

• Completed an itemised packing list / customs invoice for all international shipments, including those between the UK and the EU, with valid and accurate Commodity Codes.
  • Use Commodity Code look-up tool
• Included a notice of country of origin for all shipments from the UK to the EU if you are creating your own customs invoice (we'll include this on any we create for you).
  • For a text template, see Taxes and duties on our Brexit page
• Used a valid and accurate EORI Number for commercial shipments. For business-to-business (B2B) shipments, the receiver's EORI Number may also be requested.
  • Check your number
• Checked the specific restrictions for both the carrier and destination of your chosen service.
  • Check EU country restrictions

Further information

For the latest information on post-Brexit requirements, please see our information page. You can also refer to our service alerts page for carrier-specific updates.

If you have any queries or concerns, please contact our customer service team. Call 0345 145 1212, email [email protected], or use our Live Chat facility.

Header image: Suzy Hazelwood