Customs Declaration Service (CDS) is the UK government’s new electronic system for handling customs declaration processes.
All export declarations are due to move from the Customs Handling of Import and Export Freight (CHIEF) system to the new CDS by 4 June 2024.
From 4 June 2024, HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) will not be able to accept the single administrative document (SAD) form that is currently submitted on CHIEF. After this date, an electronic export declaration will need to be submitted on CDS.
If you have not already done so, subscribe to the Customs Declaration Service.
HMRC has published guidance to help support you to complete a CDS export declaration. This includes guidance on:
- completing an export declaration on the CDS, providing information on the key actions you will need to take
- references of messages, document, certificates and authorisations declared in Group 2
- CDS document and reference codes which must be entered into data element 2/3, this can be found in the tables and appendices
- get help using these example declarations
f you have any questions on export declarations, or need help with moving your exports to CDS, contact HMRC using one of these channels, or where appropriate speak to your Account Manager or Customer Compliance Manager.
Report a problem when using the CDS. If your problem is considered urgent, you’ll receive a response within two hours. All other problems will be responded to within 24 hours.
For general enquires on EU Exit or customs processes, contact the Customs & Border Design team at [email protected].