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Customs declarations: What is CustomsClear software and how does it work?

Customs declarations: What is CustomsClear software and how does it work?
Dan Barlow
Dan BarlowDeloitte UK

Posted: Tue 22nd Nov 2022

Information correct at publication date.

CustomsClear is easy-to-use customs declarations software that integrates directly with HMRC – giving your business more control and visibility of where it is in the declaration process.

The software – built by Deloitte – is now serving UK businesses that are importing and exporting goods to businesses in the European Union (EU).

The benefits of submitting declarations with CustomsClear

Reduce costs

  • No contracts, no sign-up fee and no costly tie-ins: simply pay as you go.

  • Lower the cost of importing and exporting by removing the need to pay for a third party to clear goods to and from the UK.*

*Not currently supporting goods exported from Northern Ireland to the EU

Simplify processes

  • You don’t need to be a customs expert – quick tips help you find and input the information you need to complete your declarations accurately.

  • Save time by only answering questions tailored to your business and the goods you’re moving.

  • Easily submit declarations online – there’s no software to download.

  • Support from our CustomsClear team to help you submit declarations with confidence.

Avoid delays

  • Real-time feedback from HMRC gives visibility into your declaration status so you can action requests quickly and keep goods moving.

CustomsClear features that help make submitting accurate declarations easier

Straightforward dashboard

Get a clearer picture when it comes to your declarations. The CustomsClear dashboard allows you to see completed and in-progress declarations, and act on any requests from HMRC.

Step-by-step export declarations

As you fill out your declarations, use the quick tips and guidance to help you find and input the information you need to complete your declarations accurately.

Dynamic interface

CustomsClear was designed to be easy to use. Only answer questions relevant to your commodity, trade and declaration type. CustomsClear pre-populates declarations based on your profile, removing the need to re-enter information each time you submit a new one.

Commodity code look-up

You can easily find the right code to classify your goods using everyday language and descriptions. Look up your code by typing in descriptive words like the type of product or the material it’s made from. To help narrow down the search, the look-up tool provides suggestions as you go.

Submitting your own declarations directly to HMRC

You know your business and supply chain better than anyone. That puts you in the best position to provide the information needed to reduce the chances of incorrect data in your declarations, which could lead to goods being delayed and potential storage costs.

CustomsClear is directly linked to HMRC, and lets you know in real time whether your declaration has been accepted – meaning there’s no waiting for a customs agent or freight forwarder to tell you when they’re ready. If there’s a status change or a request for information or inspection, you’ll be the first to know.

Find out more about CustomsClear

 


Disclaimer: This publication has been written in general terms and we recommend that you obtain professional advice before acting or refraining from action on any of the contents of this publication. Deloitte LLP accepts no liability for any loss occasioned to any person acting or refraining from action as a result of any material in this publication.

Deloitte LLP is a limited liability partnership registered in England and Wales with registered number OC303675 and its registered office at 1 New Street Square, London EC4A 3HQ, United Kingdom.

Deloitte LLP is the United Kingdom affiliate of Deloitte NSE LLP, a member firm of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited, a UK private company limited by guarantee ("DTTL"). DTTL and each of its member firms are legally separate and independent entities. DTTL and Deloitte NSE LLP do not provide services to clients. Learn more about our global network of member firms.

© 2022 Deloitte LLP. All rights reserved.

Dan Barlow
Dan BarlowDeloitte UK
Dan is an indirect tax advisor, helping his clients understand the world of customs duties and VAT. He has worked at Deloitte since 1996, prior to which he was a VAT inspector at HM Revenue & Customs. In addition to advising clients, Dan leads Deloitte’s regional business outside of London – his aim is to bring the best of Deloitte to its clients and communities that the firm works in outside London.

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