Customs Documents and Charges

When shipping parcels outside the UK, including to the EU from January 1, 2021 (learn more about Brexit here), you’ll need to complete certain customs documentation for smooth clearance at the destination country.

To simplify this process, we’ve created a guide to help you understand customs declarations, associated charges, and how to ensure your package clears customs without delays.

What is Customs?

Customs is the regulatory body responsible for overseeing the import and export of goods between countries. They prevent illegal or prohibited items from entering or leaving a country and ensure that the appropriate taxes and duties are collected on goods subject to charges.

Since each country has its own regulations concerning prohibited or restricted items, it’s important to consult the customs authority of the destination country before sending your parcel.

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Customs Declarations

For all international shipments, whether for personal or business purposes, a customs declaration is required. This document provides customs officials with essential information about your parcel. It includes:

  • Reason for Export: e.g., sale, gift, return
  • Country of Origin
  • Sender Information: Including your contact details
  • Recipient Information: Including contact details
  • Item Description: e.g., 1 red t-shirt, 2 pairs of blue socks
  • Item Value: The monetary value of each item
  • HS Code or Commodity Code: Required for shipments to the EU

This information helps ensure your parcel clears customs smoothly and complies with international regulations.

Why Choose Ace Express Cargo?

Streamline your shipping process with Ace Express Cargo, where you can compare, book, and send parcels using discounted delivery services—saving you both time and money.

  • Wide Range of Trusted Couriers: Select from a variety of reputable courier companies to ensure your parcel is in safe hands.
  • Global Reach: Book parcel delivery within the UK or to over 240 international destinations with ease.
  • Flexible Options: Choose between convenient collection and drop-off services to suit your schedule.
  • Proven Trust: With over 40,000 verified reviews on Trustpilot, our reliability speaks for itself.
  • Centralized Management: Handle all your parcel deliveries from one simple, easy-to-use platform.

For Businesses:

In addition to the standard customs declaration details, businesses must also provide:

  • UK EORI Number: Your own Economic Operators Registration and Identification number
  • Importer’s EORI Number: If shipping to another business, include their EORI number as well

Accurate information on the customs declaration form is crucial, as it helps customs determine the applicable fees and ensures a smooth clearance process.

Providing Customs Information with Ace Express Cargo

Shipping internationally with Ace Express Cargo is straightforward. We take care of all the customs paperwork for you.

Here’s How It Works:

  1. Booking Process: During your booking, we’ll collect details about the items you’re shipping.
  2. Customs Declaration: We’ll generate a completed customs declaration form and email it to you along with your shipping labels.

How to Handle the Customs Declaration:

  • Print 4 Copies: Print four copies of the completed customs declaration. Place one inside the package.
  • Attach to Parcel: Put the remaining three copies in a plastic wallet or envelope marked ‘customs’ and attach this to the outside of your parcel along with the shipping label.

Top Tips for Accurate Customs Declarations:

  • Avoid Generic Terms: Use specific descriptions like ‘1 red t-shirt’ rather than broad terms like ‘clothing’ or ‘gift.’
  • Be Honest About Value: Declare the true market value of your items, as customs may verify it.
  • Provide Accurate Contact Details: Ensure the recipient’s contact information is correct to avoid delays or returns.
  • Include HS Codes: Provide a Harmonized System (HS) code for each item, especially for EU shipments. If an exact match isn’t available, get as close as possible.

By following these guidelines, you’ll help ensure your parcel clears customs smoothly and efficiently.

Additional Customs Documents

Certain countries require additional documentation for customs clearance. For example:

  • South Africa, Brazil, Saudi Arabia, and Argentina: You may need to provide the recipient’s tax ID or passport number.
  • India: A ‘Know Your Customer’ form may be necessary. This form, provided by customs, verifies the recipient’s identity to prevent fraud.

Customs Duties and Taxes

International shipments may incur customs duties and taxes, which vary depending on the item’s value, nature, and destination country.

All parcels sent through Ace Express Cargo are shipped Delivery Duty Unpaid (DDU). This means the recipient is responsible for paying any applicable customs duties upon arrival. Customs will contact the recipient to collect these fees before delivery. Make sure the recipient is aware of these potential charges and that accurate contact details are provided during booking.

What to Do If Your Package Is Held in Customs

If your tracking shows that your parcel is held in customs, first confirm with the recipient that customs has contacted them. If not, contact Ace Express Cargo, and we will coordinate with the courier to resolve the issue.

Customs delays can sometimes be unavoidable and beyond our control. Inform the recipient that delays may occur. As a courier reseller, Ace Express Cargo works with the courier you selected to address any customs-related issues but does not have direct contact with customs authorities.