January 2022 Customs Changes

Businesses trading with the European Union (EU) are being asked to check their compliancy for new import and exports customs controls which came into force from 1 January 2022. The changes include:

  • requirement for full customs import declarations for all goods at the time businesses or their courier/freight forwarder bring them into Great Britain, except if they are non-controlled goods imported from Ireland to Great Britain
  • customs controls at all ports and other border locations
  • requirement for a suppliers’ declaration proving the origin of goods (either UK or EU) if they are using the zero tariffs agreed in the UK’s trade deal with the EU
  • commodity codes, which are used to classify goods for customs declarations, are changing

HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is here to help traders and businesses adapt to these changes. You can find out more or speak to an advisor here.

Importing and Exporting

To continue to trade with the EU, you will need to follow new rules for importing and exporting, including changes to processes and licensing. Visit GOV.UK/transition to find out what you need to do. You should:

  • Get an EORI number if you don’t already have one – this can take up to four days.
  • Check the new rules on importing and exporting goods between the EU and Great Britain – more information here.
  • Get ready to make customs declarations. You may need to work with a specialist to complete import and export declarations. More information is available here.
  • Check how to move goods internationally here.
  • Use UK to identify changes affecting manufactured goods, such as new marking requirements or approvals needed, to ensure you are ready to sell goods in the UK and EU.

Check How to Export Goods Tool

This useful government tool helps businesses by providing information for UK exporters about duties, rules of origin and customs procedures for over 160 markets around the world.

It also provides detailed information about current circumstances and changes at the UK border.

The tool will give you a tailored report relevant to your business on:

  • Rules and restrictions
  • Tax and duty rates
  • What exporting documents you need

If you are a UK exporting business, use this tool now to ensure that you keep your business moving.

Hiring and business travel within the EU

If your business hires or travels within the EU, some rules have changed. Check if your business is compliant with the new guidelines below.

Moving Goods to Northern Ireland

For Great British businesses moving goods into Northern Ireland, it’s important to act now to comply with the new rules. There are five key actions for businesses to take:

  • Register for the Trader Support Service
  • Get an EORI number
  • Check Commodity Codes
  • Check whether the UK Trader Scheme could help
  • Check goods regulation: Manufactured and Agri-food Goods

For further information on each of these actions, as well as additional guidance and support for business, check our ‘Moving Goods from GB to NI’ Explainer: Here. 

The Explainer also includes a link to a Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy video which further unpacks key changes to the movement of goods into, out of, and through Northern Ireland, and the support available to traders.

Department for International Trade

The Department for International Trade offer information and guidance relating to Exporting, Importing and have a specific section relating to Brexit enquiries from UK based businesses. The Department for International Trade have also created videos on the UK leaving the EU, explaining how trade will work and if there will be any changes.

Access DIT Resources