UK Trade Insights

Practical guides for importers, exporters, and freight professionals.

Customs & Duties

How UK import duties are calculated in 2026

A step-by-step breakdown of tariff codes, commodity classifications, and how the UK Global Tariff applies to your goods.

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Export Documentation

The essential documents for UK exports

From commercial invoices to packing lists — which export documents you need, when you need them, and how to get them right.

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Commodity Codes

Finding the right commodity code for your goods

Commodity code errors are one of the most common customs mistakes. Here's how to find the correct code and what happens if you get it wrong.

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Preferential Rates

UK trade agreements and preferential tariff rates

The UK has trade agreements with over 70 countries. Understanding rules of origin and preferential rates can significantly cut your import costs.

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Certificates of Origin

When do you need a certificate of origin?

Certificates of origin prove where your goods were made. Find out when they're required, which type you need, and how to obtain one.

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Letters of Credit

Letters of credit explained for UK exporters

Letters of credit reduce payment risk in international trade. This guide explains the process, the documents required, and common pitfalls to avoid.

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Customs & Compliance

Post-Brexit customs in 2026 — what has actually changed

Four years on from Brexit, here is a plain English guide to the current customs landscape for UK importers and exporters.

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Export Documentation

Incoterms explained — which should UK exporters use?

Incoterms define who pays for shipping, insurance, and customs clearance. Here is how to pick the right one.

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Customs & Compliance

EORI numbers — what UK businesses need to know

Every UK business trading internationally needs an EORI number. Here is what it is, how to get one, and what happens without one.

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Customs & Duties

VAT on UK imports and exports — a complete guide

Import VAT, zero-rated exports, postponed VAT accounting — this guide untangles VAT for UK businesses trading internationally.

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Country Guides

Shipping to the USA from the UK in 2026

The US is the UK's largest non-EU export market. Here is everything you need to know about duties, documentation, and customs clearance.

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Customs & Duties

Customs duty vs VAT — what is the difference?

Both are charged on imports but they work very differently. A plain English explanation with a worked example showing how to calculate both.

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Customs & Compliance

UK trade compliance checklist for small businesses

A practical before-you-import and before-you-export checklist covering everything UK small businesses need to get right.

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Shipping & Logistics

How to find a freight forwarder in the UK — and when you need one

Do you need a freight forwarder or customs agent? What they do, when to use one, how to choose, and what questions to ask.

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Export Documentation

Common mistakes UK exporters make — and how to avoid them

From wrong commodity codes to missing documents — the most common and costly export mistakes UK businesses make and exactly how to fix them.

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