CDS (UK customs declaration service) is replacing the CHIEF system. All businesses that import/export goods to/from the UK are affected by this change.
CHIEF (Customs Handling of Import and Export Freight) is closing for imports on September 30, 2022 & exports on March 31, 2023. After this all businesses will need to declare goods through the new customs declaration service CDS.
CDS is a new online system accessed through a Government Gateway portal , there is no continuation from CHIEF and importers will have to register for CDS themselves. CDS is designed to capture more information about each movement of goods to give HMRC a better picture of imports (and exports from March 31, 2023). Additional information will be needed than is currently provide by importers and exporters made via CHIEF. Correct tariff is essential. CDS declarations using the CHIEF tariff will be rejected.
Important dates:
October 1, 2022: UK Import declarations are live on CDS
April 1, 2023: UK Export declarations will be live on CDS
What do you need to do now?
In preparation for CDS for UK exports, we strongly advise engaging with us in order to ensure necessary processes and procedures are in place to meet your customs obligations.