The Customs Handling of Import and Export Freight (CHIEF) system will be replaced by a new single customs platform in 2023, the Government has revealed.
If you import or export goods, here’s what you need to know.
What is the CHIEF system?
The CHIEF system is used by businesses to process import and export declarations, enabling importers, exporters and freight forwarders to complete customs formalities electronically and automatically checks for entry errors.
What is changing?
The CHIEF system will be replaced by a single customs platform, known as the Customs Declaration Service (CDS), in two stages:

• 30 September 2022: import declarations close on CHIEF
• 31 March 2023: export declarations close on CHIEF / National Exports System (NES)

The CDS – which launched in 2018 and has already been used to process more than one million declarations – is currently used for Northern Ireland and Rest of World declarations.
The Government said the single unified system is “more secure and stable” and will deliver savings for the taxpayer.
What do traders need to do?
Ahead of the switchover, the Government said it will work with businesses to ensure the transition is “as smooth as possible”.
“CDS is a key part of the government’s plans for a world-leading fully digitised border that will help UK businesses to trade and to prosper,” said Sophie Dean and Katherine Green, Directors General for Borders and Trade at HMRC.
“This announcement will provide clarity for traders and the border industry. We are committed to making the switch-over as smooth as possible and are working to ensure traders are fully supported with the new processes.”
Businesses should use this time to familiarise themselves with the CDS. More information on the service can be found here.
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