Halloween howlers: How to avoid trade documentation horrors
Halloween is a time of spooky encounters and terrifying monsters — whether you love all the costumes and parties, or you’re the type to hide behind the sofa when the doorbell rings. Some people just can’t get into the “spirit” of it!
But before you get lost in pumpkins and trick-or-treaters, take a moment to avoid some frightful surprises with your international trade documents. Here are our top tips to help you steer clear of any Halloween howlers!
Just like the famous Hitchcock film, The Lady Vanishes, don't expect your goods to disappear before Customs spot them!
If you’re sending items temporarily overseas, for example to use at an exhibition, music event, or on a professional visit, an ATA Carnet could be your ticket to smooth travel. A Carnet works like a passport for goods, allowing you to take the items listed to over 80 destinations without paying import duties or taxes.
We’ve all been there — you’re rushing to catch a plane or ferry, and suddenly your Carnet has vanished like a ghost in the night.
Your Carnet is as important as your passport, so keep it safe and know exactly who’s responsible for it. If the worst happens and it really has been spirited away, contact our Carnet team straight away about applying for a Substitute Carnet (Carnet FAQs - No. 34).
Don’t be a zombie, shuffling through the border!
Always make sure your Carnet is stamped when you leave the UK and each time you enter and exit your overseas destination. Check that the customs office will be open when you travel, otherwise, you could face delays or fines. And whatever you do, don’t forget the final stamp when you return to the UK; if you don't then that’s the final nail in the coffin! Watch our “How to Use Your Carnet” video to avoid the pitfalls.
Tariffs, what tariffs? – it’s no use hiding from something that scares you!
When exporting your goods, make sure you include the correct Commodity Code (sometimes called a Harmonised System code) on your export documents. Get it wrong, and you could face incorrect duty charges - or worse, have your goods rejected by Customs. Learn more by joining one of our online International Trade courses, covering subjects like Customs, Export Documentation and Incoterms.
Untangling the mystery of export certificates
Not sure whether you need an EUR1 or a Certificate of Origin? You’re not alone — here’s how to tell the difference. Get them mixed up, and you could find yourself in a whole heap of trouble!
In simple terms:
• EUR1 – used for UK preferential goods, allowing an importer to qualify for reduced or zero duties when exporting under a free trade agreement.
• Certificate of Origin – used for non-preferential goods. It can cover both UK and foreign-origin products.
The complex world of rules of origin and documentation is something our experienced Export Documentation team get asked about all the time. Check out their 10 red flags of origin guide and avoid the pitfalls of getting it wrong.
Avoid a fright at the border!
If you’re shipping goods overseas, whether temporarily or permanently, you may need a Goods Vehicle Movement Reference (GMR) number. Turn up at the port without one, and you could find yourself stuck in a Customs holding bay for what feels like all eternity! Let Business West take the fear out of getting it wrong. Our Chamber Customs team can handle your GMR, import, and export declarations quickly and accurately.
International trade doesn’t have to be scary!
If you’re unsure about any of these potential “howlers”, don’t be afraid to ask. Our friendly, knowledgeable team are here to help keep your exports running smoothly.
As the X-Files agents would say, “the truth is out there,” and our team can help you find the answers to your questions.
Contact our International Trade Documentation team or our Carnet specialists for expert advice.