🇬🇧 Importing into the UK: Customs Procedures and Payment Options Explained
Since Brexit, importing goods
Since Brexit, importing goods into the United Kingdom requires new customs formalities. At Lv’fret, we support our clients throughout the process to ensure smooth and compliant operations. This guide provides a clear overview of the required documents, payment methods, and essential registrations.
📄 Essential Documents for UK Import
To allow our customs agent to complete import declarations with HMRC, the following documents are required:
- 1. Power of Attorney (POA)
→ Authorizes Lv'fret or its partner to act on your behalf. - Customs Clearance Instructions
→ Details information about the importer, exporter, goods, transport, etc. - Commercial documents
→ Invoice, packing list, and any useful supporting documents.
🖋️ These documents must be electronically signed to ensure their validity and speed up processing.
🧾 Why UK EORI and VAT numbers are essential
To import professionally into the UK, your business must be correctly registered:
- EORI (Economic Operator Registration and Identification) number
→ Required to interact with UK customs systems.
→ Must start with “GB” for imports into the UK. - UK VAT number
→ Required if you want to use deferred VAT accounting (DVA) .
→ Allows you to declare import VAT in your monthly VAT return.
Without these records, customs clearance may be delayed or refused.
💰 Payment options for duties and taxes
When importing, two types of fees may apply: customs duties and import VAT . Here are the three main methods for paying them:
🔹 1. Postponed VAT Accounting (PVA)
Ideal for UK VAT registered businesses.
- ✅ VAT deferral on the monthly VAT return.
- ✅ No cash advance.
- ❌ Does not cover customs duties.
🔹 2. Use of the DDA account of Lv'fret or its partner
Simple solution if you don't have a customs account.
- ✅ No need to have your own account*.
🔹 3. Your own DDA (Duty Deferment Account)
For regular importers with a customs structure in place.
- ✅ Postponement of VAT and duty payments.
- ❌ Requires HMRC authorisation and a bank guarantee.
🚚 And after signing?
Once the documents are electronically signed:
- Our team forwards the information to the customs agent.
- The import declaration is processed.
- We will inform you of the expected delivery date .
🤝 Need help?
Lv’fret is here to assist you with:
- Guide you in choosing your payment method.
- Assist you with electronic signature.
- Manage all customs and logistics formalities.
📧 Contact us at: hello@lvfret.com or online for more details
*⚠️ Additional fees and prepayment apply if the amount exceeds a certain threshold (except for customers with verified account).
Importing into the UK