Customs clearance after Brexit: UK–EU transport
CityFreight · 2026-07-02
Since the United Kingdom's withdrawal from the EU customs union, the movement of goods between the EU and the UK has been subject to customs. Anyone transporting goods across the Channel must plan for declarations, documents and inspections. With the right preparation, the border crossing nonetheless runs smoothly.
Required documents
- Commercial invoice with a precise description of the goods and their value
- Customs tariff number (HS-Code) for each type of goods
- EORI number of the sender and the recipient
- Export and import declaration and, where applicable, proof of origin for preferential tariffs
- CMR consignment note as the transport document
Preferential origin: saving on customs duty
The Trade and Cooperation Agreement between the EU and the UK allows, under certain conditions, duty-free imports – the prerequisite being proof of the preferential origin of the goods. Without correct proof of origin, customs duties may apply.
Typical pitfalls
Incomplete or incorrect details are the most common cause of delays at the border: wrong HS-Codes, a missing EORI number or unclear goods values. Product-specific requirements (e.g. for foodstuffs) must also be observed.
Smoothly across the border
For UK corridors, CityFreight organises customs clearance including export/import clearance and document checks – so that your direct consignment passes through without unnecessary standing times. The same applies to other non-EU destinations such as Switzerland or Norway.
This article is for general information and does not replace customs or legal advice.