· Customs & Trade · 1 min read
3 Common Customs Declaration Mistakes UK SMEs Make (and How to Avoid Them)
UK SMEs often face delays, penalties, and added costs from small customs declaration errors. Here are the top mistakes to avoid — and how Tax2Cargo helps fix them.
Introduction: Why It Matters
Even small errors in customs declarations can snowball into delays, unexpected costs, and compliance penalties.
For UK SMEs, avoiding these pitfalls is crucial to keeping supply chains smooth, predictable, and cost-effective.
Here are the most common mistakes — and how Tax2Cargo helps you avoid them.
1. Missing Information on the Declaration
The Issue
Leaving out key details such as invoice references, Incoterms, or import licence numbers often results in rejected or delayed shipments.
Tax2Cargo’s Solution
Our platform automatically checks that all mandatory fields are completed correctly, reducing the risk of missing data that stalls your goods at the border.
2. Incorrect Goods Descriptions and Quantities
The Issue
Inconsistent or inaccurate descriptions and quantities can trigger customs rejections — particularly if the same goods are imported regularly.
Tax2Cargo’s Solution
We cross-check goods descriptions and quantities against your invoices, ensuring consistency and accuracy across declarations.
3. Errors in Customs Classification
The Issue
Using the wrong commodity code (tariff classification) can mean overpaying or underpaying duties — both of which create compliance risks and potential penalties.
Tax2Cargo’s Solution
Our AI-driven engine recommends the most accurate commodity codes, helping you avoid costly misclassifications.
4. Wrong Customs Valuation Method
The Issue
Applying the wrong valuation met