In 2024, over 22% of global e-commerce shipments were cross-border (according to Statista), with the UK remaining one of the top destinations for international sellers. But while cross-border e-commerce offers incredible growth potential, it also comes with a common bottleneck: UK customs clearance.
Whether you’re shipping from Asia, North America, or Europe, ensuring a smooth customs process is crucial to avoiding delays, fees, and unhappy customers. In this article, we’ll walk you through each step of the UK customs clearance process, what documents are required, and how to avoid the red tape that stalls many first-time importers.
For step number one, you’ll need to go to the UK’s customs site and register for VAT on their portal.
This step is mandatory for every foreign business looking to import into the UK. You will need to use this number on all of your invoices.
Tip: Until your VAT registration is approved, you can estimate VAT costs and include them in your pricing strategy.
Step 2: Get a UK EORI number
Remember, this is not the same thing as any existing EU EORI you may have. You will need your EORI number at different stages throughout the customs process, for instance, when you make your customs declaration, so it’s important to figure out what it is early in the game.
The incoterms are important agreements you make with your buyer that outline who is responsible for what processes and payments regarding the customs process.
Some of the items outlined in the Incoterms include:
Who pays the import taxes/ duties
Who pays for things like insurance
Where the goods will be delivered
Who oversees the customs process
There are a variety of different types of incoterms depending on what you and your buyer need. Make sure that you understand what you are agreeing to very well before beginning the importation process.
Common incoterms: DAP, DDP, EXW – make sure both parties are aligned.
Step 4: Get the proper documents together
Most businesses hire out for this, but it is possible to do this step on your own as a foreign business— provided you have the right training and a CHIEF certification.
Typically, businesses importing into the UK will use a freight forwarder or customs agent/broker to get the job done right. There are plenty of different options when it comes to freight forwarders, or whatever provider type helps you with your customs process.
Note: Hiring a freight forwarder or customs broker can help ensure every document is compliant and filed correctly.
What documents do you need?
Red tape is one of the main culprits for trouble importing into the UK. Make sure you have all of the documents in the first list properly filled out, and make sure you know whether you will need any of the optional documents in the second list.
Calculate import duty rates based on origin and product value
Import duty = (Declared value of goods) × (Duty rate %)
Partner up with an international freight forwarder that can handle all aspects of your logistics
At Wayfindr (formerly CBIP Logistics), we go beyond freight forwarding. We’re a 4PL logistics provider, meaning we design and manage your entire global supply chain — from freight, warehousing, and fulfillment to customs clearance and compliance.
We’ve helped e-commerce brands around the world set up fast, frictionless imports into the UK and beyond. With us, you get:
A UK-ready supply chain
Customs documentation and compliance taken care of
Transparent communication and live logistics tracking
End-to-end operational efficiency
Don’t let customs delays slow your growth. Get your UK logistics right the first time — with a trusted 4PL partner by your side.
Nick co-founded Wayfindr to help brands design and build market-leading carbon-neutral D2C logistics. As Director, he brings 15+ years of experience across logistics, marketing, supply chain and retail from Asia Pacific to the world.
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