Customs Declaration Service (CDS)

Customs Declaration Service (CDS) is the UK's electronic service for import and export customs declarations. CDS replaced the older CHIEF declaration system.

Published by AllwayforwardUpdated 18 Oct 2026

Understand it in practice

A visual breakdown of Customs Declaration Service (CDS): UK declaration data, CDS submission and Acceptance + release status. The illustration simplifies the concept; the definition and applicable terms determine the details.

Where it fits in the journey

Highlighted stages are commonly relevant

01Agree — commonly relevant
02Prepare
03Transport
04Clear — commonly relevant
05Deliver

THE PICTURE, IN WORDS

Customs Declaration Service (CDS) at a glance

UK declaration data
CDS submission
Acceptance + release status

THE DETAIL THAT MATTERS

Should a current UK shipment follow CHIEF or CDS guidance?

For current UK shipments, use the applicable CDS guidance rather than older CHIEF instructions.

Read the system name in context

Reference	How to use it
CHIEF / older E2 records	Historical UK declaration context
CDS	Current UK import and export declaration guidance
EORI	Customs identification; not the declaration system

Hand-drawn customs checkpoint and shipping documents illustrating border clearance. — Customs & duties in context · original educational illustration, not a photograph of a shipment.

Before you book

For customs & duties, have these details ready:

Product materials, use and manufacturing origin
The legal importer and appointed representative
Current destination rules and supporting records

Explore customs & duties support

Sources & further reading

HMRC: Customs Declaration Service ↗

Plain-language educational guidance. The applicable contract, carrier tariff, official rules or insurance policy takes precedence. Illustrations show concepts, not a specific shipment or facility.

Published by Allwayforward as a plain-language freight reference. Examples are illustrative, not customer case studies. For a correction, send the term and supporting source.