UK Legislation Search
Search customs, VAT, import/export and trade regulations. Links to legislation.gov.uk with explanations.
Can't remember the article? Search by keyword — the tool finds the regulations and explains what they mean.
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Common customs terms (abbreviations)
Not sure what an acronym means? Here are the most common in UK international trade.
ENS
Entry Summary Declaration — pre-arrival declaration for imports into the UK (required 2 hours before arrival).
VED
Vehicle Excise Duty — a specific tax on vehicles. Some categories of goods are subject to it.
ToR
Tariff Rate Quota — a limited quantity of goods imported at a 0% rate (duty free).
RoO
Rules of Origin — processing/added-value requirements for preferential treatment.
IPR Relief
Inward Processing Relief — relief for raw materials imported for export production.
AoO
Area of Origin — determination of where goods originate. Important for the TCA and trade preferences.
CoO
Certificate of Origin — a document confirming the country of origin. Required for the TCA.
MFN
Most Favoured Nation — the standard trade rate (no preference). Applied to countries without an agreement.
FCDO / OFSI
Foreign & Commonwealth Office / Office of Financial Sanctions Implementation — UK sanctions lists.
Regime 42
Customs warehouse regime — storage without customs charges until sale/processing.
💡 Tip: Most of these terms have their own articles on legislation.gov.uk. Search for them with the tool to find full definitions and conditions of use.
When should you use Legislation Search?
"What is a ToR?"
The tool finds the article, explains what a Tariff Rate Quota is and what conditions must be met.
"What VAT do I pay on imports?"
Search "VAT import" — the tool shows the legislation article along with links to calculators.
"What are the requirements for ENS?"
Search "ENS" — you'll see the official time, documentation and procedural requirements.
"Can I use Regime 42?"
Search "Regime 42 customs warehouse" — find out which goods qualify and under what conditions.
FAQ
Do the results always link to legislation.gov.uk? +
Yes. Every result includes a direct link to the text of the regulation on legislation.gov.uk — the official source. The tool sends you to the text so you can read the exact wording.
Can I rely on the tool's interpretation? +
No. The tool is a guide — the final interpretation of a regulation should come from HMRC or a lawyer. For complex matters (reliefs, classification) — always consult a broker. WhatsApp: +44 7404 091503.
What if I can't find the regulation I'm looking for? +
Try a different keyword. Customs legislation has many alternative names. If you still can't find it — send us your question (WhatsApp) and our broker will help you locate the right regulation.
Does the legislation change often? +
UK customs legislation changes several times a year (new reliefs, trade agreements, tariff preferences). The tool links to legislation.gov.uk — always the current text. We also audit the regulations once a quarter.
Need advice on a specific regulation? +
Send your question to our brokers — WhatsApp +44 7404 091503. They will explain how the regulation applies to your goods and your procedure.
Useful resources
legislation.gov.uk — Official texts
The primary source. All customs, trade and tax legislation.
HMRC.gov.uk — Guides and tariffs
Practical guides for importers/exporters. Tariff Lookup, reliefs, procedures.
FCDO — Trade agreements and sanctions
Database of trade agreements, the TCA, preferences, sanctions lists.
GOV.UK — Guide for importers/exporters
Comprehensive — ENS procedures, documents, time limits.
Not sure about an interpretation?
Our brokers know UK international trade legislation inside out. They'll explain the regulation and show you how it applies.
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