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Time to move to CDS, HMRC tells importers

[ June 22, 2022   //   Chris ]

HMRC is writing to more than 220,000 businesses urging them to move to the new Customs Declaration Service, which is due to replace the Chief system for import declarations in September, and export declarations by 31 March 2023.

It says that CDS should now be used for making import declarations when moving goods into the UK and that the new system is a significant upgrade, giving businesses a more user-friendly, streamlined system and greater functionality.

HMRC says it also marks the first step towards the government’s vision of a Single Trade Window, which will have considerable benefits for businesses through reduced form-filling, better data use across government and a smoother experience for users.

Businesses with a customs agent must make sure they are ready to make their import declarations on the Customs Declaration Service by 30 September. Those without a customs agent must set themselves up to make their own declarations using software that works with the system before the 30 September deadline.

HMRC is also calling on businesses such as freight forwarders and hauliers to start working with their software developers, community service providers or agent to begin the migration process now.

HMRC’s director general for borders and trade, Carol Bristow, said: “There is only just over three months to go until Chief closes for import declarations and all businesses will need to use CDS instead. It is incredibly important that businesses move across to the system as soon as possible. There is plenty of support and guidance available to help businesses make the move.”

It adds that as it will take businesses time to move across onto the CDS, they must start the process now to ensure that they are fully set up ahead of the 30 September deadline.

Tags: HMRC