Measure

Customs simplifications

The measure

The government intends to implement a series of policy improvements to the simplified customs declaration process, including the extension of current deadlines and the aggregation of supplementary import declarations.

It is also reviewing further opportunities to streamline customs declaration requirements and the transit regime, including changes aimed at making it easier for traders to access a financial guarantee waiver and to start and end transit movements at their own premises.

 

Who will be affected?

Any business or person currently or intending to import into the UK or move goods under transit procedures.

 

When will the measure come into effect?

Timelines relating to the implementation of improvements to the simplified customs declaration process are yet to be published.

Stakeholder engagement relating to the review of customs declaration requirements and the transit regime is due to start from the summer of 2023.

 

Our view

Suggested improvements to the simplified customs declaration process include increasing the time in which traders must submit their supplementary declarations and final supplementary declarations, as well as allowing traders to submit one supplementary declaration for goods imported over the course of a month, potentially allowing traders more time to make accurate declarations and the opportunity to reduce administration.

Further streamlining of customs declaration requirements and usage of the transit regime are also likely to support reducing the administrative burden on traders, as well as the likelihood of supply chain delays.