NEW IMPORTERS TO REGISTER ON NEW SINGLE CUSTOMS PLATFORM

4 Jul 2022

The Customs Handling Import and Export Freight (CHIEF) is now receiving few new registrations ahead of closing for all import declarations on 30 September 2022. The system will stop accepting new registration requests from importers from 10am on 5 July 2022. Instead, they will need to register with the Customs Declaration Service to make their import declarations.

The Customs Declaration Service will replace CHIEF, representing a significant upgrade by providing businesses with a more user-friendly, streamlined system that offers greater functionality.

There is plenty of guidance and support available for new importers who are registering on the Customs Declarations Service including a declarant checklist. There is also a free Trader Dress Rehearsal service so businesses can practise making declarations on the system. New importers can also use a customs agent or express operator to make their customs declarations on the Customs Declaration Service. If business don’t have a customs agent or an express operator, they can find a list on GOV.UK.