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Importing Goods into the UK
A Simple Guide for Businesses

If you're importing goods into the UK for the first time, it's completely normal to have questions. There are several things you'll need to think about, from customs declarations and VAT to import duty and the paperwork needed to move your goods through customs.
Although it can seem a little overwhelming at first, understanding the basics will help you avoid unnecessary delays and keep your products moving smoothly.

We've put together this guide to explain some of the key terms and requirements you'll come across when importing or exporting goods. It's not intended to replace official HMRC guidance, but it should give you a better understanding of the process and point you towards the right information when you need it.

While Redpanda Fulfilment doesn't provide customs brokerage or import/export advisory services, we regularly receive imported goods into our warehouse once they've successfully cleared UK customs.
We're also HMRC approved under the VAT Fulfilment House Due Diligence Scheme (FHDDS), demonstrating our commitment to maintaining high standards of compliance and due diligence when handling imported goods on behalf of eligible overseas businesses.

The Basics

Every shipment is different, but most businesses importing or exporting goods will need to think about the following:
• An Economic Operators Registration and Identification (EORI) number
• Customs declarations
• Import Duty and VAT (where applicable)
• Commodity (tariff) codes
• Commercial invoices and shipping documentation
• Whether your goods require licences or additional certification
• The agreed shipping terms (Incoterms®)
Exactly what's required will depend on the type of goods you're importing or exporting, where they're travelling to or from, and the terms agreed with your supplier or customer.

Understanding Key Import & Export Terms

EORI Number

An Economic Operators Registration and Identification (EORI) number is used to identify businesses when importing or exporting goods. If you're moving commercial goods into or out of the UK, you'll almost certainly need one.

Commodity Codes

Every product has a commodity (or tariff) code. This tells HMRC what the product is and helps determine:
• Any Import Duty that may be payable
• VAT
• Customs requirements
• Whether any licences or restrictions apply

Getting the correct commodity code is important, as using the wrong one could lead to delays or incorrect duty charges.

Import Duty

Depending on what you're importing, where it's coming from and its value, you may have to pay Import Duty before your goods can enter the UK.
Trade agreements between countries can sometimes reduce or remove these charges, so it's always worth checking before you ship.

Import VAT

Most commercial goods imported into the UK are subject to VAT. Many VAT-registered businesses choose to account for this using Postponed VAT Accounting, although this will depend on your individual circumstances.
If you're unsure, your accountant or customs broker will be able to advise you.

Customs Declarations

A customs declaration tells HMRC what you're importing or exporting. It includes information such as the value of the goods, their origin, commodity code and destination.
Without the correct declaration, your shipment may be delayed while the information is checked.

Freight Forwarders

A freight forwarder manages the transportation of your goods between countries and will often work alongside a customs broker to ensure your shipment clears customs correctly.
For many businesses, they're an essential part of the import process.

Incoterms®

Incoterms® are internationally recognised trade terms that define who's responsible for transport costs, insurance, customs clearance and delivery.
Making sure both you and your supplier understand which Incoterm applies can help avoid unexpected costs and misunderstandings later.

Useful HMRC & GOV.UK Guidance

Import and export regulations change from time to time, so it's always best to check the latest official guidance before shipping your goods.

The following resources are a great place to start:

If you're ever unsure about your customs obligations, we recommend speaking to your freight forwarder, customs broker or another suitably qualified adviser before arranging your shipment.

A Tip from the Redpanda Team

One of the most common causes of delays we see isn't the shipping itself—it's missing or incorrect paperwork before the goods leave their country of origin.
Taking a little extra time to check your documentation with your supplier or freight forwarder before your shipment is dispatched can save days of delays once it reaches UK customs.
It's a simple step, but one that can make a real difference to keeping your supply chain running smoothly.

Disclaimer

We've done our best to ensure the information in this guide is accurate at the time of writing. However, customs regulations, VAT rules and government guidance can change, so we always recommend checking the latest information published by HMRC and GOV.UK before importing or exporting goods.
This article is intended as general guidance only and shouldn't be relied upon as legal, tax, customs or professional advice.
Redpanda Fulfilment accepts no responsibility for any loss or inconvenience arising from reliance on the information contained in this guide.
Redpanda Fulfilment provides warehousing, fulfilment and related logistics services. We do not provide customs brokerage, tax, legal or import/export advisory services.

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