CDS Import & Export Declaration – Frequently Asked Questions

Reasons for a hold include:

• Missing documents (invoice, packing list, origin certificate)
• Incorrect HS codes or values
• Random inspection for compliance or safety standards
• Non-payment of duties/taxes

Best practice: Track your MRN, respond to customs queries within 24 hours, and keep digital copies of all documents to speed up release.

Export licences are needed for:

• Military goods and technology
• Dual-use items (civil and military applications)
• Nuclear materials
• Certain chemicals, medical products, and cultural goods
  

Tip: Apply well in advance; some licences take 6–8 weeks for approval.

EXW (Ex Works):

• Seller makes the goods available at their premises.
• Buyer arranges collection, export clearance, transport, insurance, import clearance, and duties.
• Low seller responsibility, high buyer burden.
  

DDP (Delivered Duty Paid):

• Seller handles the entire delivery process, from transport and insurance to customs duties and taxes, until the goods reach the buyer’s door.
• High seller responsibility, minimal buyer involvement.

Impact:

• EXW can be risky for inexperienced buyers unfamiliar with customs processes.
• DDP may be costly for sellers due to unpredictable duty rates or foreign tax rules.
  

Checking customers, suppliers, and intermediaries against international sanctions/watchlists such as OFAC (US), the EU Consolidated List, the UN Sanctions List, and the UK Sanctions List.

Importance:

• Avoids trading with banned or restricted entities.
• Prevents legal penalties and protects the company’s reputation.

Best practice: Automate screening at the order-entry stage and re-check regularly for long-term contracts.

Purpose: Pre-arrival security screening of cargo.

Examples: The EU’s ICS2 and the USA’s ACE/AMS filings.

Data required: HS codes, cargo descriptions, consignor/consignee details, carrier codes, vessel/flight details.

Timing: Must be submitted within set deadlines, e.g., 24 hours before loading for sea freight.

Penalties for non-compliance: Border holds, fines, or even refusal of entry.

• Documentation errors: Incomplete or mismatched commercial invoices and packing lists.
• Incorrect HS codes or values: Causes customs to reprocess entries.
• Unpaid duties or VAT: Leads to immediate holds.
• Incomplete ENS/ACI filings: Missed pre-arrival deadlines.
• Random inspections: Especially for high-risk goods or flagged exporters.

• Automated HS code classification: Reduces misclassification errors.
• Real-time denied-party screening: Prevents accidental trade with sanctioned entities.
• Document validation tools: Ensure paperwork matches customs data requirements.
• ERP integration: Ensures accurate, consistent data across orders, invoices, and customs filings.

No, not always.

If you have the right software, training, and understanding of customs procedures, you can self-file.

For complex or high-value shipments, a licensed broker can help avoid costly mistakes.

CHIEF (Customs Handling of Import and Export Freight): Legacy UK customs system.

CDS (Customs Declaration Service):

• Fully replaces CHIEF.
• Supports post-Brexit rules, new data fields, and WCO data model standards.
• Required for all UK imports and exports now.