Out of hours support, we work 7 days a week
Empowering Cross-Border Novices: Assisting Businesses New to International Trade
Expert Consultancy for Procedure Codes and Tariff Classification
Import clearance does not always have to be complicated. In fact, there is a way to streamline the entire workflow and reduce the paperwork to the minimum information required by HMRC. The former CFSP – Customs Freight Simplified Procedures has now been officially replaced by the Simplified Customs Declaration Procedure (SCDP). This updated framework allows importers to use the simplified customs declaration process for faster border clearance and more efficient control of their import flows. With a high level of customs compliance, our UK branch can offer comprehensive support in using simplified declarations as part of the fully recognised simplified import process.
With the help of SCDP authorisation (previously CFSP), we are able to prepare outstanding import declarations from 2021, as it was possible to defer them for up to 175 days from the arrival of goods in the UK.
Using SCDP enables the agent to complete a simplified border import declaration with only a basic dataset, while the full supplementary declaration must be submitted by the 4th business day of the following month. Thanks to this system, we can also prepare late supplemental declarations for UK imports made under EIDR in 2021, ensuring full compliance and traceability.
Key benefits of the SCDP simplified customs declaration process include:
The deferral of duty payments is often the most valued advantage, especially for companies handling large shipment volumes. Smaller businesses also benefit from increased cash-flow flexibility, extended credit lines, and additional time to settle duty and VAT payments.
To apply for SCDP, businesses must:
By using our existing authorisation, you do not need to apply for any of the above requirements yourself – we handle them for you.
Although the system appears straightforward, it is still easy to make errors that can lead to costly delays or compliance issues. To avoid this, you can rely on our dedicated assistance. We guide your company through the entire simplified customs declaration process, ensuring that every step meets HMRC requirements. If you plan to use the SCDP procedure to optimise your supply chain operations, our experience and long-standing market expertise are at your disposal. Contact us if you want to take advantage of this efficient simplified import process and improve the overall speed and accuracy of your customs handling.
SCDP offers faster border release, fewer customs checks and improved cash flow, as duty and VAT are not payable at the point of entry. It also provides more time to collect trade documents and submit full data, making the entire import workflow smoother and more efficient. For many companies, the greatest advantage is the ability to streamline operations through a simplified customs declaration process.
Most standard commercial goods imported into the UK can be cleared using SCDP, provided they are not subject to prohibitions, licensing requirements, excise duties or special restrictions. Non-controlled goods are generally the easiest to process under simplified declarations, but controlled items may also qualify if specific conditions are met.
The documents required for SCDP import clearance can vary depending on the type of goods, but you will typically need the following:
Alongside these core documents, you must also ensure that the following information is either included on them or provided separately:
Additional documents or data may be required depending on the nature of your commodity, especially in cases involving controlled, restricted or specialised goods.
