Checklist · Printable
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UK Import Checklist 2026 — printable
Updated: 2026-06-11 · Easy Clearance — UK customs broker
This information is general and does not constitute legal or tax advice. For individual cases, please speak to a consultant.
Easy Clearance
Customs Agency | UK & PL
✓ UK Import Checklist 2026
Control checklist for importers bringing goods into the United Kingdom. Tick every point before clearance.
Section 1 — Before dispatch (shipper's side)
Commodity classification — HS code
6–10 digits, aligned with the UK Global Tariff — check the duty rate at gov.uk/trade-tariff
Customs value of goods
Price of goods + freight + insurance (CIF) — this is the basis for duty calculation
Country of origin — TCA preference verification
Goods manufactured in the EU may qualify for 0% duty under the UK–EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement
GB EORI number of the importer (or customs agent)
Without a GB EORI it is not possible to submit an import declaration in the UK
Section 2 — On the day of clearance
Commercial invoice
Complete, in English — value, description, weight, country of origin, Incoterms
Packing list
Detailed — number and type of packages, gross/net weights
CMR / Bill of Lading
Transport reference number, sender and consignee details, cargo description
Import MRN
Confirmation from the customs agent — required before the vehicle arrives at the UK port
Postponed VAT Accounting (PVA)
Is the importer UK VAT-registered? If so — import VAT is accounted for on the VAT return, not paid at the border
Section 3 — Post-clearance accounting
CDS import declaration (e.g. printout in SAD/C88 layout)
Retain for 4 years — required in the event of an HMRC audit
C79 — import VAT certificate
For VAT recovery if the importer does NOT use PVA — issued by HMRC
MPIVS Statement — monthly PVA reconciliation
If using Postponed VAT Accounting — usually available by the 10th working day of the month; download and keep a copy (online for 6 months only)
📌 Easy Clearance rates:
See current rates for import clearance, ENS and GMR on our pricing page
Exact quote provided once documents are submitted.
See current rates for import clearance, ENS and GMR on our pricing page
Exact quote provided once documents are submitted.
Need customs clearance?
Send the invoice and CMR — documents ready before the driver reaches the border.
Ranges are indicative — an exact quote follows once documents are submitted.