The Importer's Notebook
Practical guides on duty, freight, VAT and unit economics — no fluff.
Customs
22 articles
What Happens When Your Goods Arrive at Port: Customs Clearance Explained
Your container has arrived at port. What happens next? Here's what the customs clearance process looks like, step by step, and how to avoid delays.
First-Time Importer UK: How to Clear Goods Through Customs Step by Step
A complete step-by-step guide for first-time UK importers covering EORI registration, customs declarations, duty payments, and clearing goods through UK customs.
How to Find the Correct HS Code for Any Product You Import
Every imported product needs an HS code. Learn how the Harmonised System works, how to search for codes, and how to avoid costly misclassification errors.
Wrong HS Code on Your Import? Here's What It Costs You in Duty and Delays
Using the wrong HS code can mean overpaid duty, HMRC penalties, customs delays, or even seized goods. Learn the real costs of misclassification and how to fix it.
Commercial Invoice for Customs Clearance: Every Field You Must Include
Complete commercial invoice template for customs — every required field, common mistakes that cause delays, and a printable checklist for importers worldwide.
Customs Value Declaration Methods: How to Declare Import Value Correctly
Learn all 6 customs value declaration methods, what costs to include or exclude, and see worked examples of correct customs valuation for UK imports.
How to Look Up HS Codes and Find Your Product's Duty Rate
Your product's HS code determines how much duty you'll pay. Here's how to find the right code using free tools, and what to do if you're not sure.
What Documents Do You Need to Import Goods? A Complete Checklist
Missing a document can delay your shipment by weeks. Here's every document you need for a smooth import, from purchase order to customs clearance.
How to Calculate Import Duty: A Step-by-Step Worked Example
Import duty calculations don't have to be complicated. Follow this step-by-step example to understand exactly how duty is calculated on your products.
Duty and Tariff Classification: A Global Importer's Primer
HS codes, trade agreements, preferential rates — it sounds dry, but getting this right (or wrong) can swing your costs by thousands on a single shipment.
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