CDS vs CHIEF Guides: Understanding the UK’s Customs System Transition

Why This Guide Matters

For decades, UK customs declarations were processed through CHIEF (Customs Handling of Import and Export Freight). That changed with the introduction of CDS (Customs Declaration Service), the UK’s modern platform for managing import and export declarations.

The transition from CHIEF to CDS affects every importer, exporter, and customs agent. Understanding the differences helps businesses stay compliant, avoid delays, and prepare for future changes in UK customs processes.

This guide breaks down the key differences between CDS and CHIEF in a clear, practical way.

What Is CHIEF?

CHIEF was the UK’s long‑standing customs system used to process import and export declarations. It served the industry for over 30 years but had limitations:

• Outdated technology
• Limited flexibility
• Not aligned with modern international data standards
• Difficult to scale for post‑Brexit trade volumes

CHIEF has now been fully replaced by CDS for imports and exports.

What Is CDS?

CDS (Customs Declaration Service) is the UK’s new digital platform for customs declarations. It is designed to:

• Support modern international data standards (WCO, EU UCC)
• Handle higher volumes of trade
• Provide more detailed data for compliance
• Integrate with government systems
• Offer improved reporting and payment options

CDS is now the only system for submitting UK import and export declarations.

Key Differences: CDS vs CHIEF

1. Data Requirements

CDS requires more detailed data than CHIEF, including:

• Additional procedure codes (APCs)
• More granular commodity information
• Detailed valuation breakdowns
• Clearer origin and preference data
• Expanded document codes

This improves compliance but requires more preparation.

2. Declaration Structure

CHIEF used a “box‑based” format.
CDS uses a data element (DE) structure aligned with international standards.

Examples:

• CHIEF Box 44 → CDS DE 2/3
• CHIEF Box 8 → CDS DE 3/1

This means declarations look different and require updated software or agent knowledge.

3. Payment Methods

CDS introduces new and more flexible payment options:

• Immediate card payments
• Duty deferment accounts (new setup required)
• Cash accounts
• Postponed VAT accounting (PVA)
• Guarantee management

Businesses must set up their CDS payment accounts before importing.

4. Procedure Codes

CHIEF used a single 4‑digit procedure code.
CDS uses:

• A 4‑digit customs procedure code (CPC)
• A 3‑digit additional procedure code (APC)

This allows more precise declaration types but requires correct combinations.

5. Documentation & Codes

CDS uses updated document codes and formats.
Some CHIEF codes no longer apply.

Examples:

• New document codes for origin
• Updated preference codes
• Revised licence and certificate references

6. User Interface & Access

CHIEF access was managed through older HMRC systems.
CDS requires:

• Government Gateway login
• CDS financial dashboard setup
• Authorisation for software or agents
• Access to the Trader Dress Rehearsal (TDR) environment for testing

Benefits of CDS Over CHIEF

 More accurate and detailed declarations

Better compliance and fewer errors.

 Modern, scalable system

Built for post‑Brexit trade volumes.

 Improved financial management

Real‑time duty/VAT visibility and flexible payment options.

 Better integration with other HMRC systems

Streamlined processes for traders and agents.

Challenges Businesses Face With CDS

• More complex data requirements
• New codes and declaration formats
• Need to update internal processes
• Additional training for staff
• Setting up CDS financial accounts
• Ensuring software compatibility

Many businesses underestimate the preparation needed.

How to Prepare for CDS (If You Haven’t Already)

• Ensure your EORI is active
• Set up your CDS financial accounts
• Review your HS codes and valuation methods
• Update internal documentation templates
• Train staff on CDS data elements
• Confirm your customs agent is CDS‑ready
• Review procedure codes and APC combinations

Preparation reduces the risk of rejected declarations.

How We Support CDS Declarations

We help businesses transition smoothly by providing:

• Full CDS import and export declarations
• Guidance on data elements and codes
• Support with duty reliefs and procedure codes
• Setup help for CDS financial accounts
• Compliance checks before submission
• Ongoing customs support and troubleshooting

Our team ensures your declarations are accurate, compliant, and processed without delays.

Explore More in Our Knowledge Hub

Our Knowledge Hub also includes:

• HS Code Guides
• Duty Relief Guides
• Port Guides
• Importer Checklists
• Customs Glossary

If you need help with CDS declarations or understanding the differences from CHIEF, our customs specialists are ready to support you.

Get in touch for expert CDS guidance and customs compliance support.