FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
The cost will vary, depending on the type of declaration required and the mode of transport and the Port of entry. Our pricing will itemise the charges. Please contact info@hansenmac.com
A document providing HansenMac permission from you, to complete Customs Clearance on your behalf.
An EORI (Economic Operators Registration Identification) number is a unique reference number issued by Customs to the Importer and is required to import goods from outside the EU. This is a one-time application, more information can be found via the following link https://www.gov.uk/eori
A Harmonised System classification commodity code number is a unique 10 digit code that relates to your specific product and determines the amount of Duty payable. The HMRC Trade Tariff link can provide help and useful tips to enable you to classify your products. Click here https://www.gov.uk/trade-tariff
As the importer/exporter it is your legal responsibility to ensure classification of your products are correct. However, if you are unsure please do not hesitate to contact info@hansenmac.com who can assist you in an advisory capacity.
A variety of reasons can hold up a clearance for example, waiting for mandatory documents, awaiting payment, customs holds, Port Authority holds, vessel and Aircraft delays.
Our team at HansenMac will email you with your clearance paperwork as soon as the shipment has been released from customs and is free to leave the port, or board the outbound vessel.
We can recommend Freight Forwarders for the Transport logistics or you can choose your own. Whichever option you use, we will liaise with them on the Customs Clearance.
If you use a recommended Freight Forwarder you will pay them directly and we do not charge for this service.
This varies with the arrangement made by the Shipping/Airline and Freight Forwarder. It will also depend on how your goods are transported eg Containers, Truck or Aircraft and the Port of arrival. For an Ocean Import by Container it can take up to 7 days after the Ship has docked to access your goods.
You pay VAT and any Duty, directly into HM Revenue and Customs FAS Flexible Accounting System, in advance of the arrival of the goods at the UK Port of Entry. This will then link into your Customs Clearance so that your goods can be released. We will facilitate and guide you through the process.
If you are VAT registered you will be forwarded a C79 form by HMRC after the clearance, which you then use for your regular VAT Input/Output returns.
A deferment account is an account registered with Customs, which allows your Company to make Duty & VAT payments to HMRC. This is useful if you have many imports on a regular basis during the year.
You can apply for your own Deferment Account by contacting cdoenquiries@hmrc.gov.uk. Alternatively, you can pay through the FAS (Flexible Accounting System)
