CUSTOMS CLEARANCE AT FOLKESTONE PORT
Folkestone is one of the UK’s busiest freight routes to the EU, with goods moving through the Channel Tunnel in both directions. For businesses trading across the UK-EU border, efficient customs clearance at Folkestone port it’s essential to avoid delays, penalties, or extra costs.
Since Brexit, every consignment moving through Folkestone requires a customs declaration. If you’re importing or exporting, accurate paperwork is now non-negotiable.
Customs Clearance at Folkestone Port: Customs Declarations
All movements through Folkestone must be declared through the UK’s Customs Declaration Service (CDS). Traders are responsible for providing the correct data for each shipment. That includes:
- The correct HS codes (tariff codes) for each product
- The declared value of the goods
- The country of origin, to determine if tariffs or trade agreements apply
- EORI numbers for both the UK and EU if trading across the border
- Supporting paperwork such as commercial invoices and packing lists
If any of this information is incorrect or missing, the declaration can be rejected, and the goods may be delayed or even returned.
Extra Checks for Certain Goods
Some types of goods require more than just a standard declaration. If you’re transporting food, plant products, or anything of animal origin, additional rules apply. These are known as SPS (sanitary and phytosanitary) requirements.
These goods may require:
- Health certificates or phytosanitary certificates
- Prior notifications to border control authorities
- Physical inspections upon arrival
It’s essential to plan for these checks in advance. Missed documents or last-minute changes can quickly cause a full shipment to be held up, even if the customs declaration itself is correct.
Avoiding Delays During Customs Clearance at Folkestone
Folkestone is a high-throughput port, and there’s little room for error. Mistakes in declarations – even small ones – can disrupt tight delivery schedules and lead to storage charges or rejected loads.
The most common issues include:
- Mismatched details between transport and customs documents
- Incorrect tariff codes
- Missing licences or authorisations
- Late or incomplete declarations
Delays also happen when goods arrive without the necessary customs or health paperwork submitted in advance. Given the speed of Channel Tunnel operations, any delay in paperwork is a problem.
Tips for Faster Customs Clearance at Folkestone Port
To keep things running smoothly at Folkestone:
- Submit your customs declarations well before the goods arrive
- Double-check HS codes, values, and supporting documents
- Confirm whether your goods need any additional certification or checks
- Work with a customs broker who understands Folkestone-specific procedures
Efficient clearance at Folkestone depends on preparation. With the right steps in place, businesses can keep goods moving across the UK-EU border without disruption.
How Do I Contact a Customs Agent to arrange Customs Clearance in Folkestone?
When you are ready to customs clear your goods, you can contact one of our agents using the form below and we will assist you.
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