The Customs Declaration Service (CDS) is soon going to replace the Customs Handling of Import and Export Freight (CHIEF) system that has managed the process for 25+ years. CHIEF will be closing down in two stages:
Imports – 30/09/2022
Exports – 31/03/2023
Why are HMRC migrating from CHIEF to CDS?
- It represents a significant upgrade by providing businesses with a more user-friendly, streamlined system that offers greater functionality
- Marks the first step towards the government’s vision of a Single Trade Window, which will have considerable benefits for businesses through reduced form-filling, better data use across government, and a smoother experience for users.
- CDS is a key part of the government’s plans for a world-leading fully digitised border that will help UK businesses to trade and to prosper.
What changes?
There may be changes to the data requirements we need from you in order to meet the new CDS requirements. Important points to note: all CPCs (Customs Procedure Codes) have changed and there may be additional information required depending on the commodity codes you use. Please do not be alarmed if we start asking for information that has not previously been requested by our team.
What we need from you - follow these four steps:
1. Ensure that your GB EORI number is valid and that you have set up a Government Gateway account
2. Register for CDS through your Government Gateway account (note: if using Postponed VAT Accounting (PVA), please view section below)
3. Decide how you will be settling any customs charges (e.g., deferment account) – more information under “Other options for paying your VAT and Duty”
i. If using a deferment account, a new direct debit will need to be created with HMRC (there is no CHIEF to CDS transition for direct debits)
ii. You will need to let us know your Customs Comprehensive Guarantee (CCG) number if using deferment account, or if operating using Special Authorities and/or Procedures
4. Nominate us as your customs broker on your CDS cash account – you will need our EORI number: GB296262669000
Postponed VAT Accounting (PVA):
If you are already using PVA and accessing your VAT statements via Government Gateway, you will already be set up for CDS. The only step you need to take is to nominate us as your customs broker on your CDS cash account – you will need our EORI number: GB296262669000
Other options for paying your VAT and Duty:
You will be able to view your payments and balance under the CDS Financial Dashboard, as well as edit any standing authorities associated with your account
Cash account – replaces the Flexible Accounting System (FAS), and will be set up automatically once you’ve registered for the Customs Declaration Service
Immediate payment by Bacs, CHAPS, online or by telephone banking – you can pay by debit, corporate credit card or cheque
Individual guarantee – you can use these to cover customs duties for one-off or high value imports
General guarantee account – this allows you to provide multiple guarantees from the same account, and continue importing goods into the UK and pay a disputed amount later once agreed
For additional information please visit the toolkit designed by HMRC that details all of the information required.
For any assistance regarding the above, your contact at Powercargo is:
Chelsea Trolley – ctrolley@powercargo.co.uk
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