Logistics insights from the GCL Team

UK customs procedures can appear complex, but understanding the correct declaration method can make a meaningful difference to both compliance and landed costs. One procedure that is often overlooked is Authorised Use (previously known as End Use). This article provides a straightforward overview of what Authorised Use is, when it applies, and how importers can determine whether their goods may qualify. What is Authorised Use? Authorised Use is a UK customs procedure that

Claiming reduced or zero duty under a Free Trade Agreement can deliver significant cost savings. However, many importers rely entirely on suppliers for origin documentation, which is not always available or reliable. Importer’s Knowledge is an alternative approach that allows importers to claim preferential duty based on their own records — but it comes with increased responsibility. What is Importer’s Knowledge? Importer’s Knowledge is a customs mechanism that allows an imp

When shipping goods internationally, one of the most important elements of a customs declaration is the commodity code . This classification determines how goods are treated at the border, including duties, VAT, and any applicable restrictions. Providing the correct code is essential to ensure goods move efficiently and remain compliant with UK customs requirements. What are commodity codes? Commodity codes (also known as tariff or HS codes) are numerical classifications used

Customs clearance delays are rarely caused by a single major issue. In most cases, they result from small gaps in documentation, communication, or preparation. Most delays occur at the point of arrival, where incomplete or unclear information prevents declarations from being submitted immediately. At this stage, options become more limited and costs can begin to accrue. For UK importers and exporters, understanding where delays typically occur can help prevent unnecessary sto

The latest BIFA Standard Trading Conditions (STC) 2025 Edition are now in use across the UK freight forwarding sector. While many of the core principles remain unchanged, several updates clarify responsibilities, processes, and risk allocation between forwarders and their customers. For importers and exporters, understanding how these changes apply in practice helps avoid misunderstandings and ensures shipments move smoothly. Clearer definitions and responsibilities The upda

As a Freight Forwarder & Customs Agent we are increasingly being asked by HMRC to provide evidence that we hold written instruction on file from the importer/exporter to show we have been appointed as a Direct Customs Agent. Therefore, recently, we have been asking companies to complete and sign a new form instructing GCL Logistics Ltd as Direct Customs Agent and incorporating BIFA terms of trading under which we operate. This request has raised a few questions with some cu

We are pleased to announce that GCL has successfully applied for a one-month extension on use of the Customs Handling of Import and Export Freight system (CHIEF). While we will still primarily be processing declarations through the new Customs Declaration System (CDS), this one-month extension will provide an extremely helpful back up system, in case of any technical that may arise. While the extension is only available for clear business reasons, the announcement was met pos