Your UK customs preparation checklist.

Tick each item as you prepare it. Checked items record your own review; they do not confirm customs clearance.

1. 01Describe the goods preciselyList product names, materials or ingredients, intended use and country of origin. Avoid descriptions such as “goods” or “sample” on their own.
2. 02Reconcile goods and package countsRecord units per product, package numbers, final packed dimensions and gross weight. Match them to the actual contents and packing list.
3. 03Record actual value and currencyPrepare values for each product line, the total and currency. Keep purchase or valuation evidence and identify freight or insurance charges separately where needed.
4. 04Prepare the sales invoiceInclude seller and buyer details, invoice reference, goods, quantities, values and currency. Confirm the declaration documents with the carrier or customs agent.
5. 05Prepare the packing listMap each package to its contents and references. Update the list after consolidation or repacking so documents describe the final shipment.
6. 06Review commodity classificationUse the product’s material and function to review the UK commodity code with the official Trade Tariff or customs agent. Do not copy a supplier’s code without checking its applicability.
7. 07Confirm the importer and declarantAgree the legal importer, who makes the declaration, contact details and authority for any customs representative. A delivery address alone does not settle these responsibilities.
8. 08Check the business importer’s GB EORIVerify the EORI and business details required for the Great Britain import arrangement. Confirm any VAT registration and customs-agent information separately.
9. 09Check restrictions for the actual productsCheck whether the goods need licences, certificates, marking or other controls. No selected special category does not establish that goods are unrestricted.
10. 10Verify the complete UK delivery addressCheck the recipient, full address, UK postcode and contact number. Make sure the chosen region agrees with the address and any delivery-access requirements.
11. 11Agree delivery and tax responsibilitiesFor a commercial sale, confirm the Incoterm and named place, including DAP or DDP where applicable. For every shipment, agree who pays duty, VAT, clearance and final-delivery charges.

Preparation only. This checklist does not submit a declaration or calculate duty or VAT. Requirements depend on the goods and import arrangements.