Description before a shortcut
A commodity code follows goods characteristics such as material, use and processing. A trading name alone may be insufficient. A supplier may use another tariff or a shortened code, so check the tariff relevant to clearance. Provide a specification instead of only the invoice code.
Dispatch versus origin
Origin differs from warehouse location or invoicing country. Preference requires the applicable rules and evidence, not merely EU-to-UK transport. Goods made from components from several countries may require production information. Do not derive origin from the seller’s address alone.
Information for verification
Supply technical description, composition, identifying product images, commercial documents and manufacturing information. Check the appropriate origin evidence when seeking preference. A decision for a previous consignment may not fit a new product variant. Changes in material or use can matter.
Before you commission the work
- Describe material and use.
- Check the appropriate tariff code.
- Separate dispatch country from origin.
- Collect preference evidence where applicable.
What to watch out for
Classification and preference are not interchangeable. Correctly classified goods still need a separate assessment of preferential duty eligibility.
Official sources
General information, not a customs decision or individual tax advice. Requirements depend on goods, route and circumstances; check current guidance before transport.
