Customs Compliance Health Checks
Why Audit International Trade Activities?
All UK companies that trade in goods with overseas countries (Import and Export) will at some time be subject to a Customs audit from HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC).
A Customs audit of a three-year import/export period is required (under UK customs legislation) to review a company’s international trade (Import and Export) activities. The aim is to ensure that the UK’s borders are working effectively and that the correct taxes are being paid to HM Treasury.
These Customs audits can be time-consuming, stressful, and potentially, expensive for companies, with audits lasting in some cases for months rather than days. They will be conducted online, or in person, and are based on checking that your export compliance is robust and documented. If it is not, your company could incur an instant and substantial fine.
HMRC expects a company to have satisfactory procedures in place to effectively control the accuracy of the customs declarations submitted in its name.
In other cases, if you are willing to start the process to achieve an Authorised Economic Operator status, this Customs Audit service can help your company prepare for the checks HRMC will carry out.
What is involved?
Our Customs specialists can provide valuable advice and support to any company involved in importing or exporting goods. Members of the specialist Customs compliance team can conduct a review of your customs exposure through a site visit to identify any areas of concern in knowledge or processes – making sure that your company is prepared and, most importantly, compliant.
Your Customs compliant specialist will be able to recommend a list of actions or training options to help cover all that is needed.
Customs Health Checks or pre Customs Audits Checks are available as a one-off service, or part of a wider package of international trade consultancy that can include documentary and compliance services, staff training, Import and Export documentation, strategic planning and more.
What are the Costs?
The cost of a Customs Health Check depends on the complexity of the international trade activities carried out, and the size of the company. Below is a guide.
Each Customs Health Check will include a site-visit by your Customs Specialist who will assess the strengths and weaknesses of the existing controls and procedures, will identify any customs compliance and/or security compliance gaps, along with a detailed written report summarising both their findings and recommendations of best practice for future action which can be presented to senior management when required.
