CDS System Incoming - Action Needed

As we advised last month, the UK government are introducing a new electronic system for submitting customs declarations soon. The Customs Declaration Service (CDS) is due to replace the current CHIEF system in a two phase approach.

From 30th September 2022, all import declarations have to be made through CDS, as the CHIEF system will no longer be accessible, the same applies to Exports from 31st March 2023.

IMPORTANT: Importers and exporters need to to be prepared for this change to avoid delays. The below items need to be considered and actioned accordingly.

You must be registered for a Government Gateway Account

You most likely already have a Government Gateway account to access your tax accounts. This account should be used to gain access the Customs Declaration Service (CDS). If you do not have a government gateway account, then register here.

You must register for the Customs Declaration Service (CDS)

You need to be registered for CDS, which can take up to 5 working days to complete. So, make sure you register here if you have not done so already.

To register for CDS you will need your Government Gateway User ID and password as well as:

– Your GB EORI number
– Your Unique Tax Reference (UTR) number
– Address of your business held on Customs records
– Your National Insurance number (sole traders)
– The date you started your business

Make sure you are set up for payments of VAT & Duty

If you DO NOT have a customs deferment account and are paying your VAT & Duty through invoices from your broker then nothing will change.

If you have a customs deferment facility, CDS uses a different bank account to CHIEF, so you must set up a brand new direct debit, this can be done here.

You will also need to re-authorise your broker (Westbound) to use your deferment facility, which is done within your new CDS Finance Dashboard find out more here.

If you are accounting for VAT using Postponed VAT Accounting, then you will need to access your postponed VAT statement via CDS here.