Freight Forwarding · Customs
Customs handled by people who do it every day.
A dedicated customs team processing UK import and export declarations, and arranging clearances in Europe and beyond.
Your customs partner
Customs has become one of the more complex parts of moving goods to and from Europe. Planning ahead is what avoids the delays.
Before Brexit, we trained our staff on the new processes and gave clients guidance on revised documentation. As a result, our clients rarely suffered the delays many importers and exporters faced.
Beyond standard clearances, we issue T1 transit documents, advise on complex customs matters and help with authorisation applications for Inward and Outward Processing, End Use and Customs Warehousing.
What's included
Customs services we provide.
Import & export clearances
Standard declarations prepared and lodged for goods entering and leaving the UK.
T1 transit documents
Move goods under customs control without paying duty until they reach their destination.
ATA carnets
Temporary export of goods such as exhibition stock, professional equipment and samples.
Temporary imports
Goods brought in for a set period and re-exported, with relief from duty where it applies.
Specialist authorisations
Help applying for Inward and Outward Processing, End Use and Customs Warehousing.
Customs bonded warehouse
Store imported goods with duty and VAT suspended until they are released.
EU customs agent network
Trusted agents arrange clearances at the European end of the route.
UK port clearance badges
Badge access at UK ports so our team can resolve issues on site.
Duty deferment account
Duty and VAT paid monthly rather than shipment by shipment.
Why Peters & May
Experience on complex cases
Our customs specialists guide you through the rules so each shipment meets the requirements.
Documentation taken off your desk
We prepare and check the paperwork, so cargo moves through customs without holds.
Compliance first
Getting it right first time avoids the delays and penalties that disrupt a supply chain.
Speak to the team
Customs enquiries.
Office hours Monday to Friday, 9:00am to 5:30pm (UK).
All offices & contact details →Customs FAQs
Common questions
Can you clear goods returning to the country?
Yes, including managing any duty refunds or exemptions that apply.
What is a Direct Representation Letter, and do I need one?
It authorises us to act on your behalf in the customs clearance process. We need one in place before we can clear your shipment.
How are duties and taxes calculated?
By commodity type, value and the destination country’s rules. We can estimate them and advise on legitimate ways to reduce them.
Are there items that cannot be cleared?
Some goods need special permits or cannot be imported or exported at all. Tell us what you are shipping and we will advise.
How do I make sure my shipment complies?
Our team will take you through the documents and requirements for your specific shipment.
Can Peters & May handle all of the clearance?
Yes. We offer full customs brokerage, managing the documentation and requirements end to end.
Often booked with
Tell us what you're moving.
Commodity, dimensions, weight, origin, destination and ready date are enough to start. We'll recommend the route and method, and explain why.