Master customs compliance for hassle-free trading in calais

Mastering Customs Compliance for Hassle-Free Trading in Calais

Understanding the Importance of Customs Compliance

When it comes to international trade, particularly in the post-Brexit era, customs compliance is more crucial than ever. For traders and drivers moving goods through Calais, ensuring you are fully compliant with customs regulations can save you time, money, and a lot of hassle. Here is a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the complexities of customs compliance and make your trading experience as smooth as possible.

For a detailed guide on smooth trading across Calais, you can also refer to this comprehensive resource.

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Preparing for Your Journey to Calais

Get 'Border Ready'

Before you even reach Calais, it is essential to be 'border ready'. This means ensuring that all necessary documentation and preparations are in place to avoid any delays or issues at the border.

• Check Your Goods Movement Reference Number: Use the ‘Check if you need to report for an inspection’ service to see if your goods are held for inspection. This will help you determine if you need to attend an inland border facility1.
• Ensure All Paperwork is in Order: Make sure you have all relevant paperwork, including the local reference number (LRN), export declaration references, and any other necessary documents for your goods movement1.

Documents You’ll Need

Here is a detailed list of the documents you may need:

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• Common Transit Convention Movements:
• Local Reference Number (LRN)
• Export declaration references or a master unique consignment reference
• Transit Accompanying Document (TAD) for office of departure and office of destination1
• ATA Carnet Movements:
• ATA Carnet documents for each consignment
• CITES Movements:
• CITES permit for each consignment1

Understanding Customs Processes

Customs Clearance

Customs clearance is a critical step in the trade process. Here’s what you need to know:

• Office of Departure and Office of Destination: For Common Transit Convention movements, you need to present the TAD and provide the movement reference number (MRN) at the office of destination1.
• Customs Declaration: Ensure that import entries are submitted on the Customs Declaration Service and that the goods have arrived when the entries are made1.

Inland Border Facilities

In some cases, you may need to attend an inland border facility for customs checks. Here are the key points to consider:

• Locations and Functions: Facilities like Holyhead, Sevington, and Stop 24 offer different services such as starting and ending transit movements, ATA Carnet stamps, and SPS checks1.
• What to Expect: Upon arrival, you will be greeted by traffic management marshals, and your vehicle will undergo a quick visual inspection. You will then proceed to the front office to process your paperwork1.

Avoiding Delays and Penalties

Compliance Checks

To avoid delays and potential penalties, it is crucial to comply with all customs instructions.

• Follow Instructions: If your goods are flagged for a compliance check, inform the front office staff immediately. Failure to follow HMRC instructions can result in a penalty of up to £2,5001.
• Keep Goods in Original Condition: Ensure that the goods are kept in the same condition as when they were collected from the trader1.

Excluded Vehicles

Some vehicles may be excluded from certain facilities due to their load or size.

• Oversized or Hazardous Goods: Vehicles carrying abnormal loads or hazardous goods may be directed to alternative facilities like Stop 241.
• Holyhead Restrictions: Holyhead has specific restrictions on tankers containing hazardous or contaminant liquids1.

Practical Tips for Smooth Trading

Plan Your Time

• Estimate Time at Facilities: Allow between 1 to 2 hours for customs clearance at inland border facilities. These sites are manned 24/7, but planning ahead will help you avoid unnecessary delays1.

Use of Authorised Consignor or Consignee

• ACC Benefits: Traders using an Authorised Consignor or Consignee (ACC) can start and end transit movements at their own premises, avoiding the need to attend an inland border facility1.

The Impact of Brexit on Customs Compliance

Post-Brexit Changes

The UK's exit from the European Union has introduced significant changes to customs procedures.

• New Regulations: Traders must now comply with UK customs regulations, which differ from those of the European Union. This includes obtaining an EORI number and understanding new customs procedures1.
• Northern Ireland: There are specific arrangements for trade with Northern Ireland, which traders need to be aware of to avoid any complications1.

Safety and Security Considerations

Traffic Management and Security

• Automatic Number Plate Recognition: Facilities use automatic number plate recognition cameras to monitor vehicles entering and exiting the site, enhancing security and traffic management1.
• Visual Inspections: Security marshals conduct quick visual inspections of vehicles to ensure there are no leaks or prohibited items1.

Human Rights and Modern Slavery

Ethical Trading Practices

While focusing on customs compliance, it is also important to ensure that your trading practices adhere to ethical standards.

• Modern Slavery: Ensure that your supply chain is free from modern slavery. This is not only a legal requirement but also a moral obligation2.

Mastering customs compliance is essential for hassle-free trading in Calais. By understanding the necessary documents, processes, and regulations, you can avoid delays and penalties. Here is a summary of the key points:

Key Points Summary

By following these guidelines and staying informed about the latest customs regulations, you can ensure a smooth and compliant trading experience in Calais.

Additional Resources

For further guidance and updates on customs compliance, you can refer to the official UK government resources and industry-specific guides. Staying updated is key to navigating the complex world of international trade successfully.