New customs rules

If you move goods between the EU and Great Britain (England, Scotland, and Wales) you must register for the Goods Vehicle Movement Service (GVMS) now.

The GVMS is a UK Government IT platform for moving goods into or out of Great Britain which is available at certain ports for faster clearance of goods with pre-lodged declarations.

Full customs controls will apply to all goods moving between the EU and Great Britain. The GVMS has been designed so that fast and efficient movement of goods can be enabled and will be used at all UK ports.

These changes will come into effect from 1st January 2022.

From this date, if you have not registered for the GVMS and you attempt to move goods through a port where it is in place, you will not be permitted to:

  • Cross the EU/GB border
  • Clear your goods through customs.
  • Board the ferry/shuttle

A list of ports where this is applicable can be found here.

Who should register?

If you are a UK or non-UK based haulier you must register for the GVMS. For instance, you should register if you are an independent driver transporting goods and doing your own customs paperwork, or a company that sub-contracts to pick up goods on behalf of another business. You will also need to register if you are a logistics business who has been hired to transport goods and complete customs processes on behalf of another business. Furthermore, you will also be required to register if you are a large retail business that transports and declares your own goods.

How to register

In order to register, you must have the following:

  • GB Economic Operators Registration and Identification (EORI) number
  • Government Gateway Account

To obtain the above and register for the GVMS, please visit the official Government website.

As always, if you would like any further information regarding the above, please feel free to contact our offices by email info@williamsoncroft.co.uk.