HMRC’s Customs Handling of Import and Export Freight (CHIEF) system is being replaced by the Customs Declaration Service (CDS). The first phase saw all import declarations being made through the CDS with the deadline of the second phase for export declarations fast approaching. 

In a recent announcement to stakeholders, HMRC recommended that the move of export declarations from CHIEF to CDS needs to take place as soon as possible. Regarding the 30 March 2024 deadline, they have said "While most export declarations can move to the CDS by Saturday 30 March 2024, we understand not all customers may be able to migrate by then. For this reason, you will have until Tuesday 4 June 2024 to move to the CDS. After this date you will no longer be able to submit customs declarations through CHIEF."

HMRC has made an available an online service for making export declarations directly into CDS which replaces the National Export System Web (NESweb) system, which was used for declarations in CHIEF. Any trader wanting to use the new system will require an Economic Operators Registration and Identification (EORI) number, a Government Gateway ID and will need to be registered to use CDS.

Read the official HMRC announcement HERE

For more information on CDS, visit the GOV.UK website