Simplified ‘no deal’ customs procedures for EU imports

HMRC has written to 145 000 VAT-registered businesses trading with the EU about simplified importing procedures and also updated them on the actions that they need to take to prepare.

New transitional simplified procedures (TSP) will reduce the information businesses need to give in an import declaration when goods are crossing the border. They do this by allowing importers to defer giving a full declaration and paying any duty. 

Businesses can register for TSP from 7 February. To do this they must have an economic operator registration and identification (EORI) number be established in the UK and be importing goods from the EU into the UK.

Currently under import processes for trading with the rest of the world goods are not released from customs control until a full import declaration is made and the duty is paid or accounted for.

HMRC says it will review the policy three to six...