International

Post-Brexit European road freight: customs, GVMS and keeping trucks moving

10 January 2025 6 min read

Customs paperwork is now part of every European movement

Since the UK left the EU customs union, every commercial goods movement between the UK and the EU requires customs declarations, whether that's a full customs declaration, a transit movement, or simplified procedures depending on the goods and route.

The terms shippers need to understand

A basic working knowledge of the key systems helps avoid delays at the border.

  • EORI number — required to move goods between the UK and EU; without one, goods cannot clear customs
  • CDS (Customs Declaration Service) — the UK's system for submitting import and export declarations
  • GVMS (Goods Vehicle Movement Service) — links customs declarations to a vehicle's booking reference so ports can check goods are cleared before boarding
  • T1 transit — used to move non-EU goods through the EU with duty suspended until they reach their final destination

How we keep trailers moving

Our European transport service is built around carriers experienced in cross-border documentation, so declarations are prepared correctly and GVMS references are in place before a vehicle reaches the port. Getting this right the first time is the single biggest factor in avoiding delays at Dover, Calais or the Eurotunnel terminals.

Frequently asked questions

Talk to our team.

Get a tailored quote or speak to our operations team about your transport requirements.