Customs Clearance for Sea Freight Shipments
ACS Sea Freight provides professional customs clearance services for both UK imports and exports. Our team manages the required documentation and declarations to help cargo move efficiently through customs and into the wider ocean freight supply chain.
Whether shipping full container loads, LCL consignments or specialist commercial cargo, we provide structured customs handling aligned with UK port and shipping processes.
Our Customs Clearance Services
ACS Sea Freight manages import and export declarations for cargo moving through the UK’s major sea freight gateways.
Export Customs
- UK export declarations (CDS)
- Commercial invoice verification
- Port and carrier coordination
Import Customs
- Import entry submission
- Duty and VAT calculation
- Port and cargo release coordination
Commodity Classification
- Commodity code support
- Incoterms and valuation checks
- Compliance verification
Transit & Procedures
- T1 transit documentation
- Temporary import/export procedures
- Port, depot and release liaison
Export Customs Clearance
For shipments departing the United Kingdom, our team prepares and submits export declarations before cargo is presented to the port, depot or carrier. This helps keep export handling and vessel planning on schedule.
- CDS export declaration submission
- Commercial documentation verification
- Commodity code validation
- Coordination with carriers, depots or port processes
- Export compliance checks
Documents Typically Required
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- EORI Number
- Commodity Codes
- Export licences (if required)
Import Customs Clearance
For inbound shipments arriving into the UK, we provide compliant import declarations to minimise delays and secure release from the port, shipping line or depot for onward delivery.
- Import entry submission and customs processing
- Duty and VAT calculations
- Document verification prior to entry
- Coordination for cargo or container release
- Onward delivery and final-mile coordination
To Clear Imports Efficiently
- Commercial Invoice and Packing List
- Consignee EORI (UK)
- Commodity Codes (HS)
- Bill of Lading / arrival details
- Any licences or controls (if applicable)
Customs Clearance FAQ
Common questions about UK import and export customs clearance for sea freight shipments.
Do I need an EORI number for customs clearance?
In most cases, yes. UK imports and exports usually require an EORI to submit customs declarations. If you are unsure, tell us whether it is import or export and who the importer or exporter of record is, and we will advise.
What documents are required for customs clearance?
Typically a commercial invoice and packing list. We may also need the EORI, commodity codes, Incoterms, and any licences or controls where applicable. For imports, bill of lading and arrival details can help speed release.
How long does customs clearance take at UK ports?
Clearance time depends on documentation quality, commodity type and whether customs selects the shipment for checks. When paperwork is correct and complete, many consignments can be processed promptly once arrival and availability are confirmed.
Can you provide both customs clearance and delivery?
Yes. We can manage the declaration process and coordinate collection or delivery to and from ports, depots or release points, depending on the shipment structure and service requirement.
Who pays duty and VAT on imports?
Duty and VAT are typically paid by the importer of record in the UK, depending on the Incoterms agreed between buyer and seller. If you share the Incoterms and consignee details, we will confirm the most suitable setup.
What information do you need to start a customs entry?
Import or export direction, shipper and consignee details, commercial invoice, packing list, commodity codes, Incoterms, weights and dimensions or volume, and any time constraints. For imports, include bill of lading and arrival details if available.
Request Customs Clearance Support
Send us your shipment and document details and our team will confirm the required customs entries, next steps and pricing.
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