HMRC has scheduled the closure of the Customs Handling of Import and Export Freight (CHIEF) system for imports on 30 September 2022 and exports on 31 March 2023.
Are You Ready?
If you make import and export declarations, or a customs agent such as Denholm Global Logistics submits declarations on your behalf, now is the time to start transitioning to the Customs Declaration Service (CDS). The Customs Handling of Import and Export Freight (CHIEF) system will close for import declarations in September and for export declarations next March. Instead, these must be made on the CDS.
Who does the change apply to?
The change from CHIEF to CDS applies to all businesses that import and export goods into and out of Great Britain.
Why must I transition to CDS?
You may not be able to continue trading if you do not move to CDS in time.
Key dates
What do you I need to do?
Even if an agent like Denholm Global Logistics submits custom declarations on your behalf, there are four steps you MUST take to prepare for the transition to CDS:
- Apply for an EORI number
- Subscribe to the CDS
- Arrange your financial accounts for CDS
- Provide a standing authority to use your financial accounts
Step 1: apply for an EORI number
You require an Economic Operators Registration and Identification number (EORI number) if you make customs declarations or if you appoint someone to deal with customs for you. If you do not already have an EORI number you can apply for one here.
Step 2: subscribe to the CDS
Click here to subscribe to the Customs Declaration Service.
Step 3: arrange your financial accounts for CDS
- When you register for CDS you will automatically be provided with a cash account. The CDS cash account replaces the FAS payment service for immediate payments of duty and VAT on imports. Your cash account will need to be topped up with a balance before you wish to use it.
- If you have a deferment account, you will need to arrange a new Direct Debit Instruction (DDI) for declarations submitted via CDS. Your current DDI for declarations via CHIEF does not need to be cancelled before arranging for a CDS DDI. You can access your financial accounts by logging in here.
Step 4: provide a standing authority to use your financial accounts
- Access your financial accounts again by logging in
- Enter the EORI number of the company you wish to give access to using your financial accounts.
- For Denholm Global Logistics, this EORI number is GB414562468003
- Select which account you wish to grant them access to. Note that an agent who declares on your behalf will require access to both accounts if you use both deferment and immediate payments.
- Once you have completed your registration set up for CDS you will need to provide all of your references to Denholm Global Logistics.
Are you an existing Denholm Global Logistics customer?
We are in the process of contacting all our customers to ensure we have access to your new CDS account and confirm any additional information we may require. If we have not been in touch with you, we will be shortly.
Alternatively, you can contact us directly via email: customs@dgluk.com