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Chief migration set for mid-2018
[ April 15, 2016 // Chris ]Chief migration set for mid-2018
The CHIEF replacement program (Customs Declaration Services or CDS) delivery schedule is being redrafted, with completion of full migration now predicted for the middle of 2018, somewhat later than originally planned, reports Peter MacSwiney, chairman of UK clearance solution provider ASM.
He states that, with the message structure changing from the current EDI data sets to UCC XML data sets, “this will impact software suppliers requiring them to make a number of changes. Current communications networks will be changed and a system of APIs (Application Programme Interface – a standard interface the bridge between one system and another) will be built, affecting both CSP (Community Services Provider) to CDS messaging plus third-party software to CDS messaging. HMRC will work collaboratively with software providers on these changes.”
He adds that technical proving of the tariff module is on track and delivers the majority of functionality required, which includes working out duty and VAT on shipments. Work on the core declaration system is ongoing and a gap analysis is in progress to determine what other functions will be required to meet UK needs. A series of face-to-face meetings between the trade and the CDS Programme Team are scheduled for 6 and 27 April.
MacSwiney adds: “After many months of planning and considerable ‘behind the scenes’ activity it is pleasing to arrive at the point where the hard work carried out by the team will start to become visible to the wider freight forwarding community.”