If you’re taking commercial goods out of Great Britain in your accompanied baggage or small vehicle, it’s important to understand the correct procedures to avoid delays and ensure compliance.

What Items Are Included?

Goods classified as Merchandise in Baggage may include:

• Product samples for trade shows or client meetings
• Consumables when traveling with an ATA Carnet
• Equipment for temporary business use

How to Declare Your Goods

If you’re exporting commercial goods, you must make one of the following declarations:

• Full Export Declaration – Required for certain goods
• Simple Online Declaration – Available for eligible lower-value goods
• Declaration by Conduct – A quick process at the point of exit for certain goods

When to Submit Your Declaration

• If using a Simple Online Declaration, you must submit it at least 5 days before departure.
• Safety and security declarations are not required for Merchandise in Baggage exports.

When Do You Need a Full Export Declaration?

A Full Export Declaration is required before departure if your goods:

• Are valued over £2,500
• Weigh more than 1,000kg in total
• Are restricted or controlled items (e.g., those requiring a license)
• Include alcohol, tobacco, or fuel (excise goods)

Using a Simple Online Declaration

You can use the Merchandise in Baggage Online Declaration Service if your goods:

• Are leaving Great Britain
• Are valued under £2,500
• Weigh less than 1,000kg in total
• Do not require a license or fall under restricted/controlled categories
• Do not include alcohol, tobacco, or fuel (excise goods)

If eligible, this allows your goods to pass through the green channel (“Nothing to Declare”).

Making a Declaration by Conduct

A Declaration by Conduct can be made at the point of exit from Great Britain if your goods:

• Are valued under £2,500
• Weigh less than 1,000kg in total
• Are not restricted, controlled, or excise goods

How to Declare by Conduct:

• On foot: Walk through a customs control point (e.g., the green “Nothing to Declare” channel).
• In a vehicle: Drive through a customs control point with the goods inside your vehicle.
• At your overseas destination: Report to the customs control point to declare your goods.

If you require proof of export? Use a Simple Online Declaration instead of a Declaration by Conduct.

All travellers must ensure you have a UK EORI number:

• Check your EORI
• Apply for UK EORI

For more details or assistance with your export documentation and declarations, contact cds@chamberelancs.co.uk

Plan ahead and keep your exports moving smoothly!