UK Customs | Descartes UK

Descartes Customs Compliance Solutions

UK Customs Software

Reduce the risk of delays and compliance issues. Descartes e-customsTM solutions help UK businesses make customs clearances easy, accessible, and efficient.

Simplify UK customs compliance with Descartes e-customs

Customs rules are complex. Manual processes cause errors, delays, and compliance risks.

Descartes e-customs is a cloud-based platform that automates import and export declarations, ensuring accuracy and HMRC compliance.

Your guide to efficient customs management

We understand the challenges businesses face with customs procedures. That’s why we’ve developed a solution that automates and simplifies the process. With Descartes e-customs, you can:

Import & Export Declarations

Submit declarations using simplified procedures.
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Customs & Bonded Warehousing

Ease cash flow pressures and streamline your customs warehouse operations.
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External Temporary Storage Facilities (ETSF)

Reduce border delays by processing declarations off-site via an ETSF.
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Goods Vehicle Movement Service (GVMS)

Create GMRs and link declarations to vehicles for fast, compliant border crossing.
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Transit and Excise Movements

Handle Transit and Excise flows using Standard or Simplified procedures in one system.
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Inventory Solutions for Temporary Storage

Track and manage temporary storage in real time with customs integrations.
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Product Classifications

Boost compliance and reduce duty costs with structured product coding.
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Excise Movement & Control System (EMCS)

Streamline excise movements across EU Member States with greater accuracy, visibility, and control.
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Import & Export Control

Send ICS/ECS data securely and meet pre-arrival and exit control rules.
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What are the costs of a customs software?

Discover the costs of integrating into a customs management software solution. We break down pricing and explain how our solution is structured, helping businesses make informed decisions.
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Customer Success: Scaling a customs bureau with Descartes e-customs

“Managing customs declarations is increasingly complex and manually handling thousands of entries monthly is time-consuming and prone to error. Descartes e-customs has allowed us to scale our operations and improve our customer experience.”
Karl Heron,
Head of Bureau Services at Cardinal Global Logistics.
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Customs Management Software FAQ'S

What is customs management software and how does it work? Customs filing solutions, also known as customs brokerage software or customs management systems, are tools or software applications designed to facilitate and streamline the process of customs filings and compliance for importers and exporters.

When selecting a customs management solution, understanding the various cost factors is crucial for making an informed decision. By exploring key cost considerations, such as infrastructure, modules, user licensing, and other factors to help identify the most appropriate and cost-effective solution to fit your business needs.

Whether you’re a freight forwarder, haulier, or trader, customs management software helps you:

Avoid costly delays at customs by automating paperwork and submissions.
Ensure compliance with ever-changing customs regulations.
Reduce errors that could lead to penalties or rejected shipments. Learn more

Can customs management software help reduce costs? This is perhaps the most common question—does it actually save money over time?

The answer is yes, in most cases. Here’s why:

Fewer Fines and Penalties: Errors in documentation or missed deadlines can result in fines that customs management software helps you avoid.
Labour Savings: Automating customs processes can reduce the need for manual labour, cutting costs related to compliance teams or outsourced brokers.
Less Risk of Delays: When your goods get stuck at customs, you risk losing customers or paying additional fees for storage and transportation. Customs management software reduces these risks by ensuring smoother clearance.

While the initial costs might seem high, these long-term savings can make customs management software a sound investment for most businesses involved in global trade.
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When should a business change its customs filing solution? Ultimately, the decision to change customs filing solutions, whether it is an existing software platform or a third-party broker, depends on the specific needs, goals and challenges faced by the business. Outlined below are just a few scenarios that drive change.

Regulatory Changes
Scalability and Efficiency
Integration with Supply Chain Partners
Cost-effectiveness
Enhanced Compliance and Risk Management
Technology Advancements

It's important to conduct a thorough evaluation of the existing system or processes, assess the requirements, consider available options, and choose a solution that aligns with the organisation's objectives and future growth plans.
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How much does customs declarations software cost in the UK? One of the biggest questions businesses ask is about the costs of customs management software. It’s not just about the initial price but the long-term financial commitment. Here’s a breakdown of the costs you can expect:

Initial Investment Costs

Software License Fees - The upfront cost depends on the size of your business and the features you need. Customisable solutions may be more expensive.
Integration Costs - You’ll likely need to integrate the software with your existing systems, such as ERP or supply chain management platforms.
Training - It’s crucial to factor in time and resources for training your team to use the software effectively.

Ongoing Costs

Subscription Fees - Many customs management software solutions use a cloud-based model, meaning you’ll pay monthly or annually for continued access.
Maintenance and Updates - Like any software, updates to comply with new regulations are required, which may involve additional costs.
Support Packages - Some businesses need ongoing technical support, which adds to the overall investment.
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How does a customs warehouse help cash flow? At Descartes we believe streamlining your import and export trade management is the best way to improve productivity and increase financial stability thereby increasing your bottom line. If you’re importing goods into the UK using a Customs Warehouse, this can help both defer the payment of duty and VAT on imports and negate the need to pay duty twice on items that you ultimately intend to export again. Duties will become payable when products are delivered onto their next destination.

With Descartes customs software solutions you can:

Create stock independently or from an import declaration.
Use smart picking to ensure the most duty efficient stock is picked.
Handle stock amendments and adjustments.
Integrate with ERP/Commercial Systems or manual.
Create import declarations or appropriate periodic reports based on outbound orders/removals.
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Insights & Resources for UK Customs

Stay informed with expert blogs and practical content covering customs & regulatory solutions for the UK market.

UK Customs & Regulatory Compliance Buyer's Guide 2026

Optimise customs management to boost efficiency and ensure compliance with our Buyer’s Guide. This guide is a roadmap designed to assist at every stage of the buyer’s journey.
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What to look for when purchasing a UK Customs Software Solution
Read Blog about What to look for when purchasing a UK Customs Software Solution

Understanding Customs Management Software Solutions
Read Blog about Understanding Customs Management Software Solutions

What are the Costs of a UK Customs Software Implementation?
Read Blog about What are the Costs of a UK Customs Software Implementation?