What are HMRC’s new customs data services for importers?
Many UK businesses are still unaware that HMRC allows importers to access detailed customs data for every declaration submitted in their name. This data includes values, duty amounts and the commodity codes used for every import.
This visibility gives businesses the chance to check the accuracy of declarations, strengthen internal audit processes, and monitor their import activity with more confidence. HMRC’s updated customs data report service, introduced in late 2025, makes these insights more accessible, with clearer, structured reports at no cost.
Nevertheless, despite the benefits, many organisations still don’t take advantage of this tool, usually because they don’t know it exists, or don’t realise its potential value.
What services are available to import businesses?
Customs data report service
In November 2025, HMRC replaced the “Management Support System” (MSS) with the customs data report service which is completely free of charge.
Organisations can use this service to obtain reports detailing imports attributed to specific importers. These reports can be used for businesses to verify their customs declarations and to track their activity over time. They can also be highly value for internal audits or investigations.
To request a report, individuals must be subscribed to the Customs Declaration Service, have an EORI number starting GB, and have an individual or organisation Government Gateway user access. Businesses can then request four types of report, depending on the level of detail they need:
Import item report
Lists each item in an import declaration along with commodity codes, customs values and duty amounts.
Import header report
Provides a summary of the entire import declaration, including the customs value, invoice amount and transport costs.
Import tax lines report
Provides an overview of taxes such as customs duties, VAT and Excise Duty.
Export item report
Lists each item in an export declaration along with commodity codes, values and export measures.
Customs Declaration Service (CDS)
The Customs Declaration Service (CDS) is HMRC’s single customs platform for making import and export declarations when moving goods in and out of the UK. It is now fully established as the sole system for customs declarations, following the closure of the Customs Handling of Import and Export Freight (CHIEF) system. CDS was introduced to provide a more flexible, modern platform capable of supporting future growth in UK trade.
If your business’ trade involves the import of goods from overseas and you would like to understand more about the data and support available from HMRC, please contact one of our team using the form below. Price Bailey can assist in obtaining your business’ customs records and can also review import processes to ensure that businesses are correctly reporting and processing imports.
We always recommend that you seek advice from a suitably qualified adviser before taking any action. The information in this article only serves as a guide and no responsibility for loss occasioned by any person acting or refraining from action as a result of this material can be accepted by the authors or the firm.
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