What happens on the 30^th of September – those who have made the switch to CDS Imports will continue to Import into the UK using the new customs declaration service.

If you are not set up to use CDS for Imports, you will have to use the online application form to request permission for an extension to continue to use CHIEF for Imports.

You need to apply using an online form and further details are available on Gov.UK.

PLEASE NOTE: You will only be compliant to use CHIEF for Imports beyond the 30^{th of} September if you have permission granted by HMRC.

This extension application is open to traders who have genuine reasons for not having completed the migration to CDS in time i.e.: training for CDS booked in October, Software provider not ready etc….

Those traders who are not committed to the migration and no evidence can be produced to prove they have begun the migration process, permission to use CHIEF in the interim will not be granted and they will ultimately lose their CHIEF Badge.

The online application is open to current CHIEF Badge holders only. If you are a new import business, you should be registered or in the process of registering for CDS.

Any applications made with an extension date beyond the 31^{st of} October will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis by HMRC and additional information will be required.

The application processes to extend the use of CHIEF for your import declarations from OCT 1st 2022 , is only open to declarants. This means that the application can only be applied for by customs agents or brokers who complete the declarations on behalf of traders but also traders who complete their own declarations.

The application is not for importers who advise a customs agent or broker to customs clear consignments for them.

If you are unsure if your customs agent or broker has applied for the extension to continue to use CHIEF we would recommend contacting them for confirmation.

Message from HMRC

1. Import declarations need to be made using the Customs Declaration Service from 1 October 2022. You need to act now and there is help and support available on Gov.UK and YouTube.
2. If you know you can’t be ready for that date, you should consider using a customs agent who can help you. We have a list on Gov.UK.
3. If you are unable to use CDS for your import declarations or use a customs agent, we are allowing CHIEF badge holders to seek permission for a short extension to use CHIEF beyond 30 September, if you have a clear business reason. You need to apply using an online form and further details are available on Gov.UK.
4. Those that successfully apply for an extension will be provided with help and support to move to the Customs Declaration Service as soon as possible. 
5. A limited group of declarants are unable to fully migrate their imports so can continue to use CHIEF for imports without having to apply for continued use. We will contact those declarants directly to let them know. 
6. If you continue to use CHIEF from 1 October 2022 without permission, HMRC reserves the right to remove your access. 

Not going to move in time for 1 October 2022?

If you are unable to use CDS for your import declarations or use a customs agent, we are allowing CHIEF badge holders to seek permission for a short extension to use CHIEF beyond 30 September, based on a clear business reason.

Those that successfully apply for an extension will be provided with help and support to move to the Customs Declaration Service as soon as possible.

If you continue to use CHIEF from 1 October 2022 without permission, HMRC reserves the right to remove your access.

Strong & Herd CDS Resources and Training

CDS Community™ Membership

Practical and clear advice and assistance for importers , exporters , agents and those that are completing their own declarations.

CDS Clinics & Spotlight Sessions
Our clinics have been developed to give you an opportunity to ask questions and bring working examples of issues you facing surrounding the changes.

CDS Training
CDS is a major change to the way in which customs declarations are made, and this course provides detailed information on the changes.