This article will provide businesses in Ireland and Northern Ireland with an understanding of the process when completing a customs declaration for import and/or export and an overview of key documentation required to help complete the declaration.
Introduction
A customs declaration is a legally required document that provides details of goods that are being imported or exported into and out of Ireland and Northern Ireland.
The following information should be used as a guide only and if businesses decide to complete a customs declaration in-house, then further guidance and training is advised. There is also the option to engage a third-party source to complete the relevant declaration on your behalf such as a customs agent/freight forwarder.
Your step-by-step guide to completing an import declaration |
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The following video provides an introduction for cross-border SMEs in Ireland and Northern Ireland when completing an import declaration. There are several documents mentioned throughout this video, for example, a packing list, invoices, and shipping instructions. We've provided PDF copies of the forms and it's recommended that you refer to these documents as you watch this video. |
Your step-by-step guide to completing an export declaration |
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The following video provides an introduction for cross-border SMEs in Ireland and Northern Ireland when completing an export declaration. There are several documents mentioned throughout this video, for example, a packing list, invoices, and shipping instructions. We've provided PDF copies of the forms and it's recommended that you refer to these documents as you watch this video. |
What are my options when completing customs declarations?
Below are two options for cross-border SMEs in Ireland and Northern Ireland to consider when completing customs declarations.
Option 1: Using the services of a third-party source, customs agent, or freight forwarder.
These are only estimates and costs will vary depending on the service provider:
- Import Declarations starting at approx. £50/€57 per declaration.
- Export Declarations starting at approx. £25/€28 per declaration.
- Full Trading Members of Irish International Freight Association
- Current members of the British International Freight Association
- HM Revenue & Customs register of customs agents and fast parcel operators
Option 2: Completing customs declarations in-house.
This option includes buying the customs clearance software and completing your own declarations. It will involve up-skilling yourself and/or your workforce.
These are only estimates and costs will vary depending on the service provider:
- A subscription-based offering, starting at approx. £60/€70 per month.
- A yearly license approx. £200/€230 and approx. £2/€2.30 per entry to "transmit" to Customs.
- For the UK you may also need a gateway account, approx. £1000/€1150 per annum. The software for the UK and Ireland is not the same so you may need both.
- Training on the software starts at £950/€1100.
- Required port charges (which again vary between ports are usually accessible on the websites of the ports).
Article reviewed: April 2023