📦
🚛
✨ Import RORO Declaration

Importing into the UK,
decoded.

Everything you need to know about GVMS, RORO imports and getting your goods cleared at non-inventory-linked UK ports — in plain English.

★ The basics

What is an Import Declaration?

At the core of the customs clearance process is the import declaration, which functions much like a passport for your goods, allowing them to cross borders. This essential document provides a comprehensive inventory of your imported goods — detailing their nature, value, and final destination.

However, the import declaration is more than just paperwork; it is a formal notification to customs authorities about your intention to bring goods into the country. This crucial step enables customs to enforce import laws and regulations, ensuring all incoming goods comply with UK legislation.

By ensuring your declaration is accurate and complete, you help facilitate a smooth and efficient customs clearance.

🚛

Why GVMS exists

Non-inventory-linked ports operate through the Goods Vehicle Movement Service (GVMS). Introduced by HMRC in January 2021, GVMS streamlines clearance by linking the Movement Reference Numbers (MRNs) for pre-lodged declarations to a single Goods Movement Record (GMR), which includes the vehicle’s details. Each GMR is specific to a single crossing by one vehicle — the haulier only needs to present the GMR at the frontier, ensuring faster clearance.

★ Where it applies

Where is GVMS used?

The Goods Vehicle Movement Service (GVMS) is not available at all ports — only at border locations that support pre-lodged customs controls. HMRC publishes a list of ports using GVMS.

Introduced in January 2021, GVMS was initially used only for transit movements from the EU and for goods moving from Great Britain (GB) to Northern Ireland (NI). It is now in place for imports and exports at GB ports that have chosen to use the service. Border locations receiving goods from the EU into GB can choose between two customs control models: the traditional temporary storage model or the newer pre-lodgement model.

Dover Eurotunnel Ashford Sevington Folkestone Immingham

★ Getting set up

How do I use GVMS?

To move goods through GVMS ports, the person or business responsible must first register for GVMS with HMRC. This requires a Government Gateway User ID and a GB EORI number.

HMRC has provided a detailed GVMS end-to-end guide to help traders use APIs to connect to the platform. Through the GVMS API, users can:

1

Create a GMR

Open a new Goods Movement Record for the crossing.

2

Update a GMR

Change crossing details or add declaration IDs.

3

Finalise a GMR

Lock it in once everything is in place.

4

View & manage GMRs

See active records, retrieve details, or delete one.

5

Reference data

Pull GVMS reference data straight from the API.

6

Hand to the haulier

Driver presents the GMR at the frontier — done.

★ The checklist

What do I need for a GVMS import?

When requesting customs clearance for a GVMS import, please have the following ready:

  • Invoice
  • Packing list
  • Movement Reference Number (MRN)
  • Other transport documents from your shipper
  • Port of arrival
  • Truck / Trailer number
  • Commodity codes & country of origin
  • Incoterm agreements
  • Freight costs (if required)
  • Method of payment (PVA, deferment, cash, immediate)
  • Estimated time of arrival
🚀
📬

Ready to clear your import?

Send us your paperwork and we’ll handle the rest — quotes and clearances in minutes, day or night.