How to Import Goods into the UK

Описание: Bringing goods into the UK from abroad involves more than just shipping and delivery. There are important processes to follow, and these apply to all shipments, regardless of the country the goods are sent from.

If you're importing products, the first thing you'll need is a UK VAT and GB EORI number. The EORI is your Economic Operator's Registration and Identification number, and it's essential for customs clearance. Without it, your goods won't move through customs smoothly.

Once your goods arrive, customs will assess any duties and import VAT that need to be paid. Depending on what you're importing and where it's coming from, tariffs may also apply. Whilst import VAT can be reclaimed on your VAT return, duties and tariffs will affect your bottom line. So, it's important to understand what costs you might face up front.

You should instruct your freight forwarders to use postponed import VAT accounting (PIVA), which means import VAT isn't payable when importing goods and is just included on your UK VAT return as statistical information only. This has no cash flow impact.

To make managing these payments easier, many businesses set up a duty deferment account. This lets you delay paying customs duty and import VAT for a set period rather than paying immediately at the border. It's a useful way to improve cash flow and simplify your import process.

Another key point is knowing who the importer of record is. For many, this will be the UK business—basically, the person or company responsible for ensuring your goods comply with all UK import laws, paying the correct duties and taxes, and submitting the right paperwork. If you do not have a UK business but are using a freight forwarder or customs broker, they might take on this role.

Navigating customs declarations and making sure your goods comply with UK regulations can be complex, but getting it right means your products reach the market without unnecessary delays or penalties.

At Goodwill, we help businesses understand these processes and set up the right systems to manage importing efficiently and compliantly. If you're looking to bring goods into the UK, get in touch and let us guide you through the journey.