Customs Clearance Portsmouth
Portsmouth International Port is one of the UK’s most important south‑coast gateways, serving freight, passengers, RoRo ferry traffic, and global trade routes. As a major commercial and ferry port, Portsmouth handles millions of customers and a large volume of cargo each year, making efficient customs‑clearance processes essential for avoiding delays and keeping supply chains moving.
With strong motorway links via the M275 and A3 direct access to London, along with extensive ferry services operated by Brittany Ferries, Portsmouth plays a key role in GB‑EU trade.
At Global Customs Clearance, we support importers, exporters, hauliers and logistics providers to ensure fast, compliant and cost‑effective customs‑clearance at Portsmouth.
Why Customs Clearance Matters at Portsmouth
Following the UK’s departure from the EU, Portsmouth operates under full customs controls, requiring all imports and exports to meet UK customs regulations. The port functions as a Temporary Storage location, meaning goods arriving can remain under customs control while declarations are submitted — but accurate documentation is crucial to avoid delays or storage charges.
Portsmouth also uses the Goods Vehicle Movement Service (GVMS) for certain RoRo movements, requiring hauliers to be ‘border ready’ with correct references and declarations before arrival. Because ferry schedules operate tightly, even minor customs issues can result in vehicles missing sailings or being held until documentation is corrected.
Why Choose Us for Customs Clearance in Portsmouth
Fast Import & Export Declarations
We submit CDS declarations promptly to ensure goods clear without delay and are released quickly from Temporary Storage.
Experienced RoRo & Trailer Freight Handling
Portsmouth is predominantly a RoRo ferry port. We manage both accompanied and unaccompanied freight documentation, ensuring hauliers can board ferries without disruption.
Compliance with Post-Brexit GB-EU Procedures
We ensure correct documentation including TADs, ATA/TIR carnets, and all EU-related customs requirements needed for GB–EU movements.
Duty, VAT & Tariff Management
We assist with duty calculations, VAT requirements and commodity-code classification to reduce the risk of incorrect declarations or HMRC holds.
Support for Special & Regulated Cargo
We help you navigate requirements for animals, plants, firearms, hazardous freight and other controlled goods that require pre-authorisation.
Portsmouth Port Capabilities
Portsmouth offers:
- One of the UK’s largest natural harbours, supporting freight, ferries and naval activity.
- Extensive RoRo infrastructure with regular services to France and Spain via Brittany Ferries.
- Strong road connections direct to the national motorway network.
- Multiple berths for freight, container and project cargo vessels.
- A Temporary Storage customs model with CNS inventory linking.
Portsmouth’s connectivity makes it a vital hub for importers, exporters, and logistics operations serving southern England and beyond.
Documentation Required for Portsmouth Customs Clearance
To keep goods moving smoothly through Portsmouth, you will need:
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Bill of Lading / Ferry Booking Reference
- Relevant Transit Documents (TAD)
- ATA / TIR Carnet (if applicable)
- EORI Number
- HS/Commodity Codes
- Safety & security declarations when required
Our team ensures all paperwork is accurate and aligned with Portsmouth’s border processes.
Common Causes of Delays at Portsmouth — And How We Prevent Them
Delays often occur due to:
- Missing or incorrect ferry booking references
- Incomplete declarations before arrival
- Incorrect commodity codes or valuations
- Failure to meet GVMS or Temporary Storage requirements
- Issues with regulated or special-category cargo
Our proactive compliance checks and early submission of documents significantly reduce these risks.
Let Us Handle Your
Portsmouth Customs Clearance
Whether you’re moving trailers, vehicles, containers, specialist freight or high‑volume RoRo shipments, we provide fast, compliant and professional customs‑clearance services tailored to Portsmouth’s busy operational environment.
No hidden fees Fast response time