How to Speed Up Customs Clearance: Practical Steps for Faster, Smoother Imports

Why Speeding Up Customs Clearance Matters

Delays at customs can disrupt supply chains, increase costs, and frustrate customers. Most clearance delays are avoidable — they’re caused by missing documents, incorrect data, poor communication, or misunderstandings about customs requirements.

This guide gives you clear, practical steps to speed up customs clearance and keep your goods moving efficiently through UK borders.

1. Get Your Documentation Right the First Time

Accurate documentation is the foundation of fast clearance. Before your shipment arrives, ensure:

• Commercial invoice is complete and accurate
• Packing list matches the shipment
• HS/commodity codes are correct
• Origin is declared correctly
• Certificates or licences are included (if required)
• Transport documents match the declaration
• Container numbers and weights are correct

Even a small mismatch can trigger a customs query.

2. Submit Customs Declarations Early

Early submission gives time to resolve issues before the vessel or truck arrives.

Make sure:

• All CDS data elements are correct
• Procedure codes and APCs are accurate
• Values, weights, and descriptions match documents
• Duty reliefs are applied correctly
• Origin claims are supported

Late or incorrect declarations are one of the biggest causes of delays.

3. Use the Correct HS/Commodity Code

Incorrect classification slows everything down.

To avoid issues:

• Verify codes using the UK Trade Tariff
• Apply the General Rules of Interpretation (GRIs)
• Check chapter and section notes
• Confirm supplier codes are accurate

Correct classification speeds up clearance and prevents customs intervention.

4. Communicate Clearly With Your Supplier

Many clearance delays start at the source.

Ensure your supplier:

• Provides documents early
• Uses correct product descriptions
• Includes accurate values and currency
• Provides origin statements (if needed)
• Shares shipping documents promptly

A well‑prepared supplier means fewer surprises at the border.

5. Provide Hauliers With Complete Instructions

Hauliers often get delayed because they don’t have the right references.

Provide:

• MRN numbers
• Port references (e.g., VBS bookings, container IDs)
• Release instructions
• T1 or transit details (if applicable)
• Terminal information

Clear communication prevents wasted trips and gate delays.

6. Understand Port‑Specific Requirements

Every UK port has its own systems and quirks.

Examples:

• Felixstowe requires VBS slot bookings
• Southampton has strict RoRo and container procedures
• London Gateway relies heavily on digital systems
• Tilbury has multiple terminals with different rules
• Liverpool requires accurate arrival references

Knowing the port’s processes speeds up clearance dramatically.

7. Ensure Transit (T1) Documents Are Correct

If your goods move under transit:

• Create the T1 before arrival
• Provide the LRN to the haulier
• Use the correct office of departure
• Ensure the destination office will discharge the T1
• Check the haulier understands transit requirements

Incorrect transit documents can stop a truck instantly.

8. Use Duty Relief Schemes Correctly

Incorrect use of reliefs can trigger customs checks.

Make sure:

• You’re using the right scheme (IP, OP, RGR, TA, warehousing)
• Procedure codes are correct
• Authorisations are in place
• Records are complete

Correct use of reliefs speeds up clearance and reduces costs.

9. Monitor Vessel Arrivals and Port Congestion

Ports can become congested due to:

• Weather
• Strikes
• Peak season
• Terminal closures
• High container volumes

Tracking vessel ETA and port status helps you plan haulier arrivals and avoid unnecessary waiting time.

10. Work With a Reliable Customs Agent

A knowledgeable customs partner helps you avoid:

• Incorrect declarations
• Port queries
• Transit errors
• Documentation mismatches
• Delays caused by incomplete data

Expert support keeps your goods moving and protects you from compliance issues.

Common Causes of Slow Customs Clearance

• Incorrect HS codes
• Missing or inaccurate invoices
• Late declarations
• Incorrect origin claims
• Missing licences or certificates
• Hauliers lacking correct references
• Transit documents not raised
• Supplier errors
• Port congestion

Most of these issues are preventable with good preparation.

How We Help Speed Up Your Customs Clearance

We support businesses with:

• Fast, accurate import and export declarations
• T1 transit documents
• Supplier document checks
• Port‑specific guidance
• Duty relief advice
• Compliance reviews
• Real‑time support during clearance

Our goal is simple: smooth, fast, compliant customs clearance every time.

Explore More in Our Knowledge Hub

You can also read:

• Importer Checklists
• How to Avoid Port Delays
• HS Code Guides
• Duty Relief Guides
• Customs Glossary

If you want help speeding up customs clearance for your next shipment, our specialists are ready to support you.

Get in touch for expert customs clearance guidance and operational support.