A guide for UK importers and exporters in 2025
Since Brexit, customs between the UK and EU have become a common pitfall for businesses. While many firms have adjusted to the new reality, avoidable mistakes still account for the majority of shipping delays, penalties, and rejected goods. And a lack of understanding of the trade relationship, and tax & duty implications of EU trade, still act as a barrier to forming new business relationships with our largest trading partner.
At Courier Express, we specialise in solving these problems every day. And what we’ve seen is clear. Most customs issues boil down to seven simple but critical errors.
Here’s what they are, and how you can stay one step ahead.
1. Incomplete or Inaccurate Documentation
The number one cause of customs delays is paperwork that’s either incorrect, or has missing or unclear information.
Every EU shipment requires specific documentation, including a compliant commercial invoice, packing list and, in the case of certain goods, licences or certificates. Details like missing EORI numbers or vague goods descriptions can lead to delays in customs completion.
“Most delays we deal with are completely preventable. They come down to missing or inconsistent paperwork. We’re obsessive about checking documents before anything leaves the yard.”
— Ben Hawksley, Customer Services & Compliance Manager, Courier Express
Quick tip: Build a pre-shipment checklist and run through it 48 hours before dispatch. Not on the day of loading.
Need help? We offer a free customs documentation review. Contact our team
2. Incorrect HS (Commodity) Codes
HS codes determine how your goods are classified for customs. This affects everything from duties and VAT to licensing and checks.
Use the wrong code and your shipment could be delayed, overcharged, or even refused entry. You could be liable for repayment of unpaid duties, or even penalties, if you are subject to an HMRC audit.
Quick tip: Look up the correct code using the UK Integrated Tariff and the EU TARIC database. Don’t assume last year’s code is still valid.
3. Declaring the Wrong Goods Value
One of the most common errors is declaring too low a value on a commercial invoice. This often happens when goods are shipped as free samples or on consignment.
Customs authorities don’t accept “£0” as a value. If it doesn’t align with market norms, it will be flagged.
“We’ve seen goods held for days because the declared value didn’t match what customs expected. Even samples need to be valued realistically.”
— Sean Mitchel, Head of International Freight, Courier Express
Quick tip: Always declare a fair market value and keep documentation to justify it.
4. Confusion Over Incoterms
Incoterms define who is responsible for customs clearance, taxes, and shipping risk. If they’re used incorrectly or not understood by both sides, they can cause delays and disputes.
For example, using DDP (Delivered Duty Paid) means you, the exporter, are responsible for paying EU import duties. If you weren’t expecting that, the shipment may be held until someone pays the bill. If you aren’t registered for tax in the country of destination, you won’t be able to recover any VAT you have paid.
Quick tip: Choose your Incoterms wisely and explain them clearly in all documents and contracts.
5. Incorrect or Unverified Origin
The term “origin” refers to where goods were made, not where they were shipped from. This distinction is critical for customs compliance, especially when claiming duty relief under trade agreements.
Getting origin wrong can result in backdated duties or even allegations of evasion.
Quick tip: Know the rules of origin for your goods and use the exact wording required by UK-EU agreements. Check the product specific rules for your goods, and ensure any statements on origin follow the proscribed standards.
6. Outdated Knowledge of Customs Rules
Post-Brexit relations with the EU continue to evolve. And keeping abreast of these can mean the difference between success and failure.
As regulations change in the UK and EU – either in the form of divergence or alignment – it is critical that your processes change with them.
“You can’t rely on what used to work. Customs rules change all the time. That’s why we stay on top of every update and change in procedure.”
— Ben Hawksley, Courier Express
Quick tip: Subscribe to HMRC and trade body updates. Work with a freight partner who will work with you to ensure compliance.
7. No Contingency Plan
Even when everything is done right, things can still go wrong. Strikes, weather, IT outages, and inspections are all part of the landscape.
If you don’t have a backup plan, a minor issue can cause major disruption.
Quick tip: Build time buffers into every shipment. Keep documents for live shipments to hand. And make sure someone is always ready to act if there’s a problem at the border.
Recognise Any of These?
If any of the mistakes above feel familiar, you’re not alone. Even experienced shippers fall into these traps, especially when systems, documents, and rules change faster than teams can adapt.
That’s where we come in.
At Courier Express, our international team specialises in end-to-end customs and freight services, working with UK businesses in food, pharma, retail, and manufacturing to move goods smoothly across borders.
Explore our freight forwarding services for more information.
Free Customs Compliance Checklist
If you’re shipping to the EU, even one missing document can cause days of delays, unexpected storage fees, and unhappy customers. That’s why we’ve created a free 2025 EU Customs Checklist to help guide you.
📥 Download your free checklist here and take the guesswork out of your next shipment.
📞 Questions about your current shipments? We’re here to help.
Call: +44 (0)1273 426 168
Email: international@courierexpress.co.uk
Get in touch here: https://www.courierexpress.co.uk/contact