HMRC’s Customs Handling of Import and Export Freight (CHIEF) system is being replaced by the Customs Declaration Service, a resilient, reliable, cost-effective system which is adaptable to the future needs of businesses.
The last day to make import declarations through CHIEF was 30 September 2022. The last day for making export declarations on CHIEF will be 30 March 2024.
The Customs Declaration Service supports making import and export declarations when moving goods into and out of the UK.
From 30 March 2024, the Customs Declaration Service will be the UK’s single customs platform and all businesses will need to declare goods through the service.
What do businesses need to do to comply?
Subscribing your Government Gateway user ID to the Customs Declaration Service will allow you to do things such as:
- submit import and export declarations using software
- get your postponed import VAT statements or get your import VAT certificates so you can complete your VAT Return
- pay Customs Duty and import VAT
To do this, use this link: https://www.tax.service.gov.uk/customs-enrolment-services/cds/subscribe
Here are some of the differences between the old system (CHIEF) and the new system CDS:
Customs legislation
CHIEF:
- Community Customs Code (CCC) and Single Administrative Document (SAD) Harmonisation rules (boxes)
CDS:
- Union Customs Code (UCC) and Data Integration and Harmonisation rules
When transferring to CDS, KMB as with other customs agents will have to input even more information with the new system, he’s a quick look at what is involved.
Data entry
CHIEF:
- 68 multi-use boxes
- was designed for people who completed paper records, with several boxes that accept data in a free text format and containing multiple pieces of information
- send supporting documents online for declarations made into CHIEF
Customs Declaration Service:
- 91 data elements each with a specific use
- entries are restricted to a specific format (except for name, address and goods description)
- upload supporting documents online for declarations made through the Customs Declaration Service
There is also a big change to Customs Procedure Codes (CPC’s) see below as follows:
Procedure codes
CHIEF:
- 7-digit fixed Customs Procedure Codes (CPCs) for each goods item
- CHIEF CPCs and Customs Declaration Service Procedure Codes/Additional Procedure Codes are different/not the same
- there are CPCs for each type of declaration
CDS:
- codes split into 2 parts; a single 4-digit Procedure Code combined with up to 99 different types of 3-digit Additional Procedure Codes (APCs) for a single goods item
- Customs Declaration Service Procedure Codes/Additional Procedure Codes are always the same for standard and/or supplementary declaration types
For even more information, please refer to the government website link here. https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/customs-declaration-service-communication-pack/key-differences-between-chief-and-the-customs-declaration-service–2
At KMB we are able to offer full Export and Import Customs clearance services, along with full Freight and Shipping services. If you require further information or want to make an enquiry please do not hesitate to contact us:
Email: info@kmbshipping.co.uk
Tel: 0121 557 3352
Web: www.kmbshipping.co.uk