Post-Brexit UK Imports — Why You Can No Longer Use an EU-Based Importer

 

Since Brexit, the United Kingdom operates a fully independent customs regime. An EU-based entity can no longer clear goods into the UK on your behalf. Every commercial import into Great Britain now requires a GB EORI number, UK VAT registration, and active access to the Customs Declaration Service — credentials only available to a UK-established importer.

The compliance landscape has changed significantly in 2025 and 2026.

Safety and Security entry summary declarations became mandatory for all goods — including EU-origin — from 31 January 2025. This means EU-to-UK shipments now require the same pre-arrival security filings as goods from any other country in the world.

The Border Target Operating Model governs SPS controls. IPAFFS pre-notification is required at least one working day before arrival for animal products, plants, and high-risk food. Export Health Certificates and phytosanitary certificates are mandatory for regulated categories.

On product compliance, CE marking is currently accepted indefinitely on the Great Britain market for most manufactured goods. There is no deadline to switch to UKCA. For medical
devices, MHRA accepts CE marks under transitional arrangements, with a consultation proposing indefinite recognition running to April 2026.

Import VAT is 20% on CIF plus duty. Postponed VAT Accounting allows UK VAT-registered importers to defer this to their domestic VAT return, making it cash-flow neutral — but PVA must be correctly configured in the CDS declaration. A misconfiguration means import VAT is charged at the border instead of deferred.

For companies without a UK entity, a third-party Importer of Record provides the GB EORI, manages UK VAT registration with PVA, files CDS declarations, handles BTOM and SPS compliance, and coordinates UKCA and MHRA product approvals.

For the complete post-Brexit compliance framework including FTA preference claims, duty rates, document checklists, and lead times, read our full guide: Importer of Record in UK

Carra Globe provides Importer of Record, DDP shipping, and freight forwarding services across 50+ countries. Learn more at carraglobe.com

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