UK Export Documents Checklist — complete list 2026
Complete interactive list of documents required for UK export customs clearance. Tick the documents you already have — the progress bar will show whether you are ready to dispatch.
Tick the documents you have.
Section 1: Core documents
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Commercial Invoice
Sales document containing: goods value, description, country of origin, details of both parties, Incoterms. Required by the customs authority to determine the customs value.
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Packing List
Detailed breakdown of the shipment contents: quantities, weights, package dimensions, pallet numbers. Essential for customs inspection.
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Exporter EORI number (PL)
The exporter's registration number in EU customs systems (format: PL + tax reference). Obtainable instantly via PUESC (puesc.gov.pl). Required to submit the EX-1 export declaration.
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Importer EORI number (UK)
The UK consignee's EORI number (format: GB + VAT number). Required to submit the UK import declaration. Without it, UK customs clearance is not possible.
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EX-1 Export Declaration (MRN)
Electronic export declaration submitted in the Polish AES/AIS system. Once accepted, it generates a Movement Reference Number (MRN) required before the goods can leave the EU.
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HS / Commodity codes
8-digit CN code (EU export) or 10-digit UK commodity code required for customs classification. Check the UK Trade Tariff or TARIC.
Section 2: Transport documents
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CMR Consignment Note (road transport)
Document of the road carriage contract (CMR Convention). Contains details of the sender, recipient, carrier and goods description. 4 copies — for exporter, importer, driver and carrier.
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GMR (Goods Movement Reference)
Used at UK ports that operate GVMS. From the EU to Great Britain it carries the import MRN from CDS (or the transit MRN under CTC); requirements depend on the port and procedure. Service cost: see our pricing page.
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Ferry / Eurotunnel booking confirmation
Booking confirmation for the HGV. Required at port check-in. Contains the vehicle registration number, route, date and time of crossing.
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Vehicle and driver documents
Vehicle registration document, carrier's licence (OCCP), driver's passport/ID, ADR certificates (dangerous goods) and ATP certificates (food products), tachograph.
Section 3: Specialist documents (where applicable)
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Statement on Origin (invoice)
Confirms EU origin of the goods — enables the 0% TCA duty rate in the UK. The exporter adds it to the invoice; above €6,000 an EU exporter needs a REX number. EUR.1 is not used in UK–EU trade.
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Export licence / permit
Required for controlled goods: weapons, dual-use technology, medicines, chemicals, sanctioned products. Check the TARIC list and Export Control guidance.
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Health / phytosanitary certificates (PHYTO)
For food, plants and animal products exported to the UK, health certificates are required from the Veterinary Inspectorate or PIORiN. Check current APHA requirements.
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Cargo insurance policy
Cargo insurance — required under CIF/CIP Incoterms. Affects the basis for calculating VAT and duty (CIF value = cost + insurance + freight). Not always compulsory, but strongly recommended.
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Frequently asked questions about UK export documents
What documents are required to export goods to the UK?
The core export documents are: commercial invoice, packing list, transport documents (CMR or Bill of Lading) and the export declaration (EX-1 in the AES system). For EU-origin goods you also need a statement on origin on the invoice (with a REX number above EUR 6,000) to benefit from TCA preferences (0% duty in the UK, if the rules of origin are met).
Do I need an EORI number to export to the UK?
Yes, a Polish exporter needs a PL EORI number to submit the EX-1 export declaration. If you are receiving goods in the UK or acting as an importer in the UK, you also need a UK EORI number. A PL EORI can be obtained instantly through PUESC (puesc.gov.pl).
What is a GMR and when is it required?
A GMR (Goods Movement Reference) is a number generated in the GVMS (Goods Vehicle Movement Service) system for movements through UK ports that use GVMS. From the EU to Great Britain: under CTC transit the GMR carries the transit MRN (no import declarations); if the import was declared in CDS before arrival, the GMR carries the import MRN; a GMR is also needed for an empty trailer and for goods declared orally or by conduct. Requirements depend on the port and procedure — check with the carrier. Easy Clearance issues the GMR as part of the clearance service.
Disclaimer: This checklist is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Document requirements depend on the type of goods, value, route and current HMRC regulations. Always verify with a customs broker before shipment.
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