For many UK exporters, the upcoming transition from CHIEF to CDS on 4th June 2024 might feel like uncharted territory. However, understanding how these changes will impact your business and where you can find support is crucial to prevent delays.
Why are these changes happening?
The Customs Declaration Service (CDS) has been introduced to keep up with the modern world of trade. Unlike the Customs Handling of Import and Export Freight (CHIEF), CDS is totally paperless and uses your Government Gateway to help you track all your customs entries. CDS also has improved efficiency with quicker response times and enhanced error handling.
How will this affect your business?
To keep up with the diversity of modern trade, CDS can handle many more scenarios. This means that as an exporter, more questions will be asked of you. Below is a sample of the additional information you may now need to provide when requesting or submitting a CDS customs entry.
Transport charges
Method of Payment
Carrier information
Route Countries
Gross Mass
CDS references for authorisations held (IP/OP/etc.)
Nature of transaction
Updated Customs Procedures
Additional Supply Chain Actors
Additional Trader’s Reference
Commercially agreed Exchange Rates
To help with these changes, testing and preparation are key. You should utilise Trader Dress Rehearsal (TDR); a test version of CDS; and spend time looking and learning to navigate the UK Trade Tariff: volume 3 for CDS which is the complete government guide on completing CDS customs declarations.
Navigating the transition with ChamberCustoms
ChamberCustoms is here to help! Having supported HMRC with CDS testing, we know CDS inside and out. We completed the first inventory-linked import in the UK and have developed a specialised expertise in handling Special Procedures within CDS. We have been dual-running CHIEF and CDS since 2020, but now exclusively operate on CDS, leaving CHIEF behind.
Whether you're grappling with special procedures, understanding HMRC guidance, or facing CDS errors or rejections, we're here to support you every step of the way. We offer a wide range of consultancy services, from affordable tickets to bespoke multi-day consultancy packages.
Don’t forget, as customs agents ourselves, we can also represent you and complete your declarations on your behalf through either our automated EXabler platform or by fully assisting through the process.
Our training courses are designed to cater to your unique business needs and offer practical solutions.
Whether you're seeking assistance in:
Learning how to complete CDS export and import declarations
Ensuring your teams’ compliance with Special Procedures (CW, IP, OP, TA, RGR)
Streamlining your international supply chain to save on duty & VAT
Tackling any other customs-related matters
We have the perfect training course for you!
Explore our range of training courses on CDS available on our website or get in touch with us for more information on our bespoke solutions.