CDS-Declarations
Global Customs provides fast, compliant CDS declarations for importers, exporters, freight forwarders, hauliers, manufacturers, and e-commerce businesses. Our team ensures your declarations are accurate, complete, and submitted on time — helping you avoid delays and keep your supply chain moving. This page explains how CDS works, what information you need, and why businesses across the UK trust Global Customs for reliable, expert customs filing.
What Is CDS?
The Customs Declaration Service (CDS) is the UK’s modern customs platform, replacing the old CHIEF system. It handles:
- Import declarations
- Export declarations
- Duty and VAT calculations
- Customs procedure codes (CPCs)
- Document codes and licences
- Tari and commodity code validation
CDS is more detailed and complex than CHIEF, requiring additional data fields and precise information.
Why CDS Matters for Your Business
Incorrect or incomplete CDS declarations can cause:
- Delays at ports
- Rejected declarations
- Incorrect duty charges
- VAT accounting errors
- Compliance penalties
- Supply chain disruption
Global Customs ensures your declarations are correct the first time.
Our CDS Declaration Services
We provide a complete range of CDS services:
Import Declarations
Full import declarations for goods entering the UK.
Export Declarations
Accurate export filings for goods leaving the UK.
Supplementary Declarations
For businesses using simplified procedures.
Customs Procedure Codes (CPCs)
Correct CPC selection to avoid delays.
Document Code Validation
Ensuring all required certificates and licences are included.
HS Code Classification
Correct commodity codes to avoid overpaying duty.
Duty & VAT Calculation
Including postponed VAT accounting (PVA).
T1 Transit Documents
Creation and discharge of transit movements.
Urgent & Same-Day Declarations
Priority processing for time-critical shipments.
Who We Work With
Our CDS services support:
Whether you move one shipment a month or hundreds per week, we tailor our service to your needs.
What You Need for a CDS Declaration
To process your declaration quickly, we typically require:
Commercial Invoice
- Seller and buyer details
- Product descriptions
- HS codes (if known)
- Value
- Currency
- Incoterms
Packing List
- Details of weights, quantities, and packaging.
Transport Document
- Bill of lading
- Airway bill
- CMR
EORI Number
- Required for all UK importers and exporters.
VAT Number (if applicable)
- For postponed VAT accounting.
Licences or Certificates
- If required for restricted goods.
Country of Origin
- Determines duty rates and trade agreement eligibility.
If you’re unsure about any of this, we guide you step-by-step.
How Global Customs Ensures Fast, Compliant CDS Filing
Expert Knowledge of CDS Requirements
We stay up to date with all regulatory changes.
Fast Turnaround
We process declarations quickly to keep your goods moving.
Compliance-First Approach
We ensure every declaration meets HMRC requirements.
Transparent Pricing
Clear, competitive rates with no hidden fees.
Nationwide Coverage
We support all major UK ports and airports.
24/7 Support
Urgent shipments? No problem — we’re always available.
Common CDS Problems We Solve
Incorrect HS Codes
We classify goods accurately to avoid overpayment.
Wrong CPC Codes
Incorrect procedure codes can cause delays or rejected declarations.
Missing Document Codes
CDS requires specific document references for many goods.
Incorrect Valuation
Errors in customs value can trigger audits or penalties.
Duty Relief Misuse
We ensure reliefs are applied correctly and legally.
Post-Clearance Errors
We handle amendments and corrections on your behalf.
Industries We Support
We work with businesses across:
Whether you import small parcels or full containers, we can support your needs.
Don’t take our word for it. See what our clients say.
At Global Customs Clearance Ltd our focus is to provide the best Customs duty clearance service in the business whilst completing all assignments with the highest level of quality.
Read More"Always a pleasure to work with the team at GCC. Quick, easy and reliable servie. "
Jason Parker
"Nothing is ever too much trouble for James and the team, they always so helpful. We can rely on them 100%, so quick and efficient! Great team, great service."
Erin Loughlin
"Having used many agents in the past, I cannot stress how much these guys went above and beyond to ensure that the process was as smooth and simple as possible."
Nick Bond
"Great people and a cost effective service provided. GCC are now my "go-to" for anything Customs related."
Kevin Gerbson
FAQs
Answers to common questions about CDS import and export declarations, timelines, and urgent submissions.
Need fast, reliable CDS declarations?
Contact Global Customs today for expert support, accurate filings, and 24/7 assistance.