If you are looking to trade goods into the UK, it is absolutely critical that you ensure you follow all the required procedures before conducting your import into the UK. By neglecting to check the procedures that apply to your goods, you can have them turned away, wasting your time and money.
In today’s blog, we will be answering the question ‘Do I need a licence to import goods into the UK?’
Radius Warehouse and Logistics is here to provide you with all the information you need when it comes to the multiple areas of logistics that we provide, from sea, to air, to road freight solutions. Operating from the South West of England for over 20 years, our experience, and service is here for anyone who requires it.
Do all countries have the same regulations for import and export?
No. Every country will have its own regulations regarding importation and exportation. There is no universal law that binds every country under the same regulation regarding import and export.
There are many reasons for this, which can include, but are not limited to:
- Environmental factors. For example, importing certain plants, animals or other organisms can severely affect the ecosystem of the country it is being imported to. So restrictions are implemented on this basis, which can vary from country to country.
- Country to country relationships. If a country is in a tense political situation with another, it can impact trade severely. Similarly, if a country is rich with items to export, it can foster beneficial relationships by establishing trade.
- The needs of each country are different, as a result trade agreements are made to ensure a level of fairness on both sides.
- Countries aside, there are region specific trade regulations that already exist, as a result of a common consensus between neighbouring states, such as the EU.
As we highlighted earlier, there is no universal law regarding trade between countries. However, there are definitely efforts to create a harmonious and beneficial trading procedures between territories. A great example of this is the World Trade Organisation and its continual efforts to promote consistency and facilitate international trade.
While there’s no single universal law, there are efforts to harmonize trade regulations and procedures. Organisations like the WTO and regional trade blocs play a role in promoting consistency and facilitating international trade.
Do I need a licence to import goods into the UK?
When it comes to importing goods into the UK, depending on the goods in question, you may not actually need a licence. This is the case for most industrial goods. However, there are instances in which a licence, or even a certificate is mandatory for importing certain goods.
Certain goods are under special restrictions because of:
- Public health concerns. Certain foods, medicines and other consumables normally fall within this category.
- Security reasons. This can be the importation of firearms or hazardous materials.
- International agreements, in some cases, importation of certain items can break international agreements, which can result in sanctions.
Goods that fall within these categories require certification/licences to ensure accountability, and the safety of citizens. Some of these items may only be allowed to import for a specific purpose and nothing more, hence why you require special permission to import them. Let’s use firearms as an example.
In the UK, firearms are illegal. Aside from the firearms unit of the police, the army, and other legally recognised organisations, only a very select few individuals can obtain a firearms licence for them to own one in the UK. A normal member of the public can not legally own one without any valid reason.
So when it comes to importing them, it quickly makes sense as to why a licence or a certificate is required from the entity that has imported them to the UK. As a restricted item, you don’t have any reason to be importing them unless it has been requested by an organisation such as the army.
If anyone was allowed to import dangerous items like this without certification or licences, there is no telling who can get their hands on them.
How do I know what I need to import my goods?
If you aren’t sure whether you require a licence or a certificate to import your goods, seeking guidance from the UK government, or a trade advisory service is always the best bet. Alternatively, consulting with a logistics company with countless years of experience under their belt, such as Radius Warehouse & Logistics is also beneficial.
If your goods are for commercial purposes, you usually require an EORI number. To see if this applies to you, click here. In simple terms, an EORI number is a registration number for anybody that is importing/exporting.
What happens if I import goods to the UK without a licence?
If your goods require a licence, and you do not obtain one before the transport and delivery of your goods, you can face the following circumstances. However, please be aware, the consequence, and its severity can vary dramatically based on the circumstances at hand.
- Your goods can be held in detention. They may be held by the border force at the port they arrived at until you can get the correct licence.
- You may be fined for neglecting the relevant import regulations, the amount will vary depending on the goods and other factors.
- Your goods have the potential to be seized. This can happen due to various factors including a deliberate non-compliance of regulation, and if your goods harbour a potential health and safety risk to the operatives in charge of the situation, and UK citizens.
- There is a potential for legal ramifications, including prosecution, though this is dependent on the severity of the situation.
In any instance, the best way to prevent any issues when importing goods in the UK is to check before you send anything over. Ensure and confirm you have received relevant licences and certificates. This way, you are avoiding additional time spent trying to fix the situation.
For more details directly from the UK government regarding import regulations, click here.
The benefits of using a logistics service
Of course, there is nobody more well versed in the requirements of importation than a logistics service, so it makes sense to seek their guidance, or obtain their services so your goods have a smooth journey.
When opting to choose Radius Warehouse and Logistics Services, you can benefit from the following advantages we offer…
- A dependable & dedicated service supported by a vast amount of experience, technology, and expertise.
- Daily Departures to European countries such as Italy, Spain, France, Holland, and more.
- Extensive surface through Europe, Scandinavia, and Ireland.
- Express/Next day delivery on some cargo.
- A fleet of vans and trucks of all sizes.
- An option for a road courier service for smaller items.
- Options for sea and air freight.
We also provide ancillary services, which are services that relate to cargo inspection, preparation of customs documentation, storage of transported goods, or goods to be transported. This is vital for anybody who wants to export their goods.
Our ancillary services cover…
- Documentation services.
- Nationwide collection and delivery in the United Kingdom.
- Express deliveries in the UK and globally.
The easiest way to transport goods
We at Radius Warehouse and Logistics Services encourage you to get in contact with us to see how our services can benefit you. Alternatively, you can get a quote from us directly, or visit our help and advice page for anything further you may need help with.
We hope that our blog answered the question, ‘Do I need a licence to import goods into the UK?’
With over 20 years of experience as an independent freight forwarder, you can expect quality service from us. In addition to being a member of BIFA, and trading under the standard trading terms of BIFA, We are also staffed by a dedicated core of enthusiastic and efficient professionals.
Our staff’s many years of experience in this industry welcomes your enquiries and hope you can join our loyal and superb client base.
