The Importer's Notebook
Practical guides on duty, freight, VAT and unit economics — no fluff.
Compliance
51 articles
UK Commodity Codes Explained: How 10-Digit Codes Determine Your Duty Rate
Learn how UK commodity codes are structured and how each digit determines your duty rate, VAT treatment, and compliance requirements.
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.
Import Documentation Checklist UK: Every Document You Need Before Shipping
UK import documents checklist — every document required to clear goods through UK customs, who prepares each one, and retention requirements.
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 Tariffs and Trade Tensions Affect Small Importers
Trade wars and new tariffs don't just affect big corporations. Here's how trade policy changes impact small and mid-size importers — and how to adapt.
Freight Forwarders vs Customs Brokers: Who Does What?
Many importers confuse freight forwarders and customs brokers. Understand the distinct roles each plays in getting your goods from factory to warehouse.
First-Time Importer Checklist: From Idea to First Shipment
Starting your first import can feel overwhelming. This step-by-step checklist walks you through everything from product research to receiving your first shipment.
How to Reclaim VAT on Imported Goods
Import VAT at 20% is a significant upfront cost. Learn how VAT-registered importers can reclaim it and the impact on cash flow and profitability.
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.
Post-Brexit Import Rules: What UK Sellers Must Know
Brexit changed the rules for importing into the UK. Understand the key regulatory changes affecting customs, duty, compliance, and VAT for importers.
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.
A Beginner's Guide to HS Codes and Customs Classification
HS codes determine your import duty rate. This beginner-friendly guide explains how the classification system works and how to find the right code.
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