How to Create a GMR (Goods Movement Reference)

What is a GMR and who needs one?

A GMR is created through GVMS and links together every declaration reference for a shipment — Movement Reference Numbers (MRNs) from customs declarations, Declaration Unique Consignment References (DUCRs), ATA Carnet numbers, and transit documentation — into a single reference your driver presents before departure.

Any business moving commercial goods between Great Britain, Northern Ireland and the EU through a GVMS-enabled port needs a GMR before the goods are loaded. There are exceptions for personal imports, accompanied baggage and certain postal items, but for standard commercial freight a GMR is mandatory.

Step-by-step — how EasyClearance handles it

Step 1 — Register for GVMS. Before any GMR can be created, the haulier or their agent must register for the Goods Vehicle Movement Service using the same address held with HMRC and a GB EORI number (this can be applied for during registration).

Step 2 — File the underlying declarations. Each shipment needs its customs declarations completed first — import, export, transit or ATA Carnet — so the resulting MRNs, DUCRs or carnet numbers exist to link into the GMR.

Step 3 — Create the GMR and link the references. Once the declarations are filed, the GMR is created through the GVMS portal, pulling together every reference for that shipment into one number.

Step 4 — Hand the GMR to the driver before departure. The GMR must be presented at check-in before goods are loaded — without a valid one, vehicles can be turned away or delayed at the border.

EasyClearance manages this end-to-end for UK-EU hauliers and importers: we prepare the underlying declarations, create the GMR, and make sure your driver has it before departure, so nothing gets held up at the port.

FAQ

Yes. You must register for the Goods Vehicle Movement Service — using a GB EORI number and the address you hold with HMRC — before you can create any goods movement reference.

A GMR links every declaration reference for a shipment, including Movement Reference Numbers (MRNs) from customs declarations, Declaration Unique Consignment References (DUCRs), ATA Carnet numbers, and transit document references, into one reference.

Goods moving through a GVMS-enabled location need a valid GMR before they're loaded. Without one, the vehicle can be delayed or turned away at check-in, so the GMR must be ready before departure.

Official sources

• Get a goods movement reference — GOV.UK
• Register for the Goods Vehicle Movement Service — GOV.UK