Customs Clearance
Expert UK customs clearance support — making imports and exports simple, compliant, and stress-free.
Service Overview
Navigating UK customs can be complex, but ASA Logistics makes it straightforward. Working with trusted customs partners, we provide full import declaration support, commodity code guidance, commercial invoice and packing list checks, duty and VAT coordination, and EORI and Incoterms guidance. Whether you’re a first-time importer or an experienced trader, our team ensures your goods clear customs efficiently and compliantly.
Coverage Area
UK ports and airports: Felixstowe, Southampton, London Gateway, Liverpool, Tilbury, Heathrow, Gatwick, Manchester, East Midlands, and all UK border entry points.
Key Features
- Import declarations through trusted customs partners
- Commodity code (HS code) support
- Commercial invoice checks and verification
- Packing list checks and compliance
- Duty and import VAT coordination
- EORI number guidance and setup advice
- Incoterms guidance (EXW, FOB, CIF, DDP, etc.)
- Full customs documentation support
- Deferment account and duty payment options
Ideal For
First-time UK importers
Businesses importing from China or Asia
Post-Brexit EU importers
E-commerce businesses importing stock
Manufacturers importing components
Any business needing customs support
Available Vehicles
Sea Freight Clearance
FCL & LCL shipments
Air Freight Clearance
Express & standard
Road Freight Clearance
EU & European imports
Postal / Courier Clearance
Small consignments
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Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an EORI number to import goods into the UK?
Yes. An EORI (Economic Operators Registration and Identification) number is mandatory for any business importing or exporting goods. UK EORI numbers start with ‘GB’ and are free to obtain from HMRC — they typically take 3–5 working days to be issued. We can advise you through the registration process.
What documents are required for UK customs clearance?
The core documents are: a commercial invoice (stating value, description, and Incoterms), a packing list, a bill of lading or air waybill, and your EORI number. Depending on the goods, you may also need a certificate of origin, import licence, or phytosanitary certificate. Our team will advise on exactly what’s needed for your shipment.
How long does customs clearance take?
In most cases, straightforward shipments are cleared within a few hours of the customs declaration being submitted. However, HMRC may select a shipment for a physical examination, which can add 1–3 days. Delays are more common when documentation is incomplete or inaccurate — our team checks everything before submission to minimise the risk.
What are import duties and how are they calculated?
Import duty is a tax charged on goods entering the UK, based on the commodity code (HS code) and the customs value (usually the transaction value including freight and insurance). Rates vary widely by product category and country of origin. Some goods qualify for zero or reduced duty under UK trade agreements. We provide a duty estimate before your shipment arrives so there are no surprises.
Do I have to pay VAT on imports?
Yes, import VAT is charged at the standard rate (20% for most goods) on the customs value plus any import duty. VAT-registered UK businesses can reclaim import VAT on their next VAT return using Postponed VAT Accounting (PVA), which means no upfront payment at the border. We can advise on PVA and ensure your import declarations are coded correctly.
What is a commodity code and how do I find the right one?
A commodity code (also called an HS code or tariff code) is a 10-digit number that classifies your goods for customs purposes. It determines the duty rate, any import restrictions, and licensing requirements. You can look up codes on the UK Global Online Tariff, but getting it wrong can result in paying the wrong duty or customs delays. Our team provides commodity code guidance as part of our clearance service.
Can you handle customs clearance for goods from China?
Yes, this is one of our most common services. We regularly clear sea freight (FCL and LCL) and air freight shipments from China and wider Asia, including managing commercial invoice verification, duty calculations, and any additional requirements such as product safety documentation or textile declarations.
What happens if my goods are held by customs?
Customs can hold goods for documentary examination (checking paperwork) or physical examination (inspecting the actual cargo). We liaise directly with HMRC and the port/airport on your behalf, respond promptly to any queries, and work to get your goods released as quickly as possible. We’ll keep you updated throughout the process.