Mastering the Shift to the Customs Declaration Service (CDS): What UK Traders Must Know

For years, UK importers and exporters relied on the CHIEF (Customs Handling of Import and Export Freight) system to process customs declarations. But now, the government has transitioned to the Customs Declaration Service (CDS)—a move that’s transforming the way traders manage international shipments.

If your business is still trying to navigate this transition, you’re not alone. The shift from CHIEF to CDS brings a steep learning curve, new data requirements, and a different interface. But more importantly, non-compliance or delays in adapting to the CDS can put your international trade operations at risk.

Here’s what you need to know about the Customs Declaration Service, and how Customs-Declarations.uk can help you adapt quickly, efficiently, and compliantly.

What Is the Customs Declaration Service (CDS)?

The Customs Declaration Service is the UK’s new digital platform for handling import and export declarations. It replaces the legacy CHIEF system and is designed to align more closely with the EU’s customs data model and international standards.

CDS is now mandatory for all UK imports and exports. Traders must submit declarations through this system to clear goods through customs—whether shipping to the EU, non-EU countries, or using special customs procedures.

Why the Switch from CHIEF to CDS Matters

While the upgrade from CHIEF to CDS is intended to modernize customs processing, the change has caught many businesses off guard. Unlike CHIEF, which had a relatively simplified structure, CDS:

  • Requires more detailed data fields

  • Uses a new 5-step declaration structure

  • Involves different codes and formats for submitting information

  • Integrates with the UK’s Government Gateway and Trader Dashboard

This means businesses can no longer copy-paste their old customs declarations—they must now understand and apply the new system correctly.

The Pinch Point: Increased Data Complexity

One of the most pressing concerns for traders is the data depth and accuracy required in CDS. Every declaration must now include:

  • Detailed item-level information

  • Commodity and procedure codes based on new formats

  • Payment method identifiers (like deferment or immediate payments)

  • Licenses or certificates where applicable

  • Additional documents referenced by specific document codes

This isn’t just administrative. Even a small error—like an incorrect code or missing data field—can result in your goods being held at the border.

Common Issues Traders Face with CDS

Here are some of the most frequent problems UK businesses report when using the Customs Declaration Service:

1. Incorrect Commodity Codes

CDS uses more granular coding, and traders often use outdated HS codes, leading to declaration rejections.

2. Missing or Invalid Authorisations

Unlike CHIEF, CDS requires traders to have specific permissions (such as duty deferment account linkage) set up in their Government Gateway account.

3. Complex User Interface

Many businesses find the CDS interface unintuitive and time-consuming without prior training or guidance.

4. Delayed Clearance Due to Manual Errors

Even minor mistakes, like incorrect incoterms or procedural codes, can delay customs clearance and disrupt supply chains.

Why Getting CDS Declarations Right Is Critical

Beyond compliance, getting your Customs Declaration Service submissions right affects your entire logistics process:

  • Faster border clearance

  • Avoidance of penalties and delays

  • Accurate VAT and duty payments

  • Preserved business reputation with international clients

In a time where delivery times and reliability impact customer satisfaction, ensuring a smooth customs process is no longer a back-office task—it’s a competitive advantage.

How Customs-Declarations.uk Can Help

Transitioning to the Customs Declaration Service doesn’t have to be a burden. Customs-Declarations.uk offers tailored support to UK traders struggling with the complexities of CDS. Their team of customs experts:

  • Prepares and submits compliant CDS entries on your behalf

  • Ensures correct tariff codes and procedure codes are applied

  • Manages duty deferment accounts and authorisations

  • Offers guidance on CDS-compatible commercial documents

  • Helps with specialist procedures like inward/outward processing or temporary admission

Whether you're a small business making your first international shipment or a high-volume trader, Customs-Declarations.uk ensures your declarations are accurate, timely, and fully compliant with CDS requirements.

Final Thoughts

The move to the Customs Declaration Service is a significant shift in how UK businesses engage in international trade. While the new system promises better security, data transparency, and alignment with global customs standards, it also presents new challenges.

Getting your declarations wrong isn’t just an inconvenience—it can mean delayed shipments, increased costs, and strained business relationships.

Now is the time to ensure your business is CDS-ready. And if you’re looking for expert help, Customs-Declarations.uk is here to make the process seamless—so you can focus on growing your business, not fighting customs red tape.


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