The end of the transition period has been slowly and quietly creeping up on us all year. Whilst headlines have been busy warning us about the pandemic, Brexit chatter has faded into the background.
For this reason, it may come as a bit of a surprise to some that there is less than one month left until we need to face new customs processes. You don’t have long to get your business prepared for the changes, especially if you plan on spending some time celebrating Christmas.
Here are a few things that you need to know and the ways in which CustomsLink could relieve some of the pressure and stress at the end of a difficult year.
Customs Declaration (C88)
The C88 is the responsibility of the importer/exporter. This crucial document contains 54 pieces of data that you will need in order to successfully declare your goods. If you have never filled in a customs declaration before you may find that the process can be fairly repetitive, complex and time consuming.
Rather than complicate things, CustomsLink has worked very hard to remove all of the confusing jargon and developed a user-friendly interface, with features such as a Safety and Security Declaration and Port Pass builders, bulk import of your product catalogue for customs entries, invite your supply chain to contribute to your declaration and tariff classification, allowing you to create a customs declaration in minutes!
Safety and Security Declaration (SSD/ENS/EXS)
Safety and security declarations are for the Haulier to handle. Without them, you are not getting on the ferry or train. The entire SSD process can be painstakingly difficult, especially when you learn that different jurisdictions handle these declarations in different ways.
To create an SSD the Haulier will need 19 pieces of information directly from the C88. Once the form is complete the Haulier will need to find out whether they are submitting the finalised declaration to the ICS (Import Control System) of the country they moving the goods to or if they are submitting this declaration to the ferry operator (who will then pass this along to the appropriate ICS).
CustomsLink have simplified this process too, with the SSD builder. This can be completed in conjunction with your customs clearance (meaning you won’t have to duplicate data entry) or you can use this service on its own CustomsLink are connected to the relevant Import Control Systems so that the process is both smooth and straight-forward.
Port Pass (Pre-Lodgement Systems or Logistics Envelopes)
Port Passes are the final, crucial step to finalising your customs processes and making your ferry or train crossing. Once again, the responsibility for these lies with the Haulier who needs to enter SSD information and the export and import/transit MRN numbers into the system in order to generate a GMR number. This then allows you to travel.
CustomsLink also has a solution for this. Find out about our Port Pass builder.
After the year we’ve all had, you deserve to enjoy your Christmas break. Let us help you with your customs processes.
