Report a problem using the Customs Declaration Service
Find out what to do if you receive an error code whilst submitting a declaration using the Customs Declaration Service.
If you find a problem when using the Customs Declaration Service (CDS) to move goods across the border, you should use the online form to report this to HMRC CDS Operations.
Who should use this form
You should use this form to report a problem when using the Customs Declaration Service if you’re:
- an importer or exporter
- an agent of an importer or exporter
- a software house
- a Community System Provider (CSP)
- a government department
Who should not use this form
You should not use this form to report a problem with:
- registering for the Customs Declaration Service — contact Imports and exports: general enquiries
- the Customs Financial Account — select the ‘Get help with this page’ link at the bottom of the screen where the problem occurs and provide details of what you were doing and what went wrong
- a declaration submitted in the test environment (Trader Dress Rehearsal) — email tdrcommunications@hmrc.gov.uk
What you’ll need
Before you start the form, you may need:
- your Local Reference Number
- your Movement Reference Number
- the error code you’ve received
Submit the form
The online form will ask you a series of questions to understand the problem you’re having and urgency of the issue.
Follow the instructions on each page to submit your responses and complete the form.
You’ll be able to:
- save your application and return to it later
- check your answers at the end of the online form before submitting
- print out a copy of your completed form
The form will not remain available online after you have submitted it.
After you submit the form
After you’ve submitted the form, you’ll receive a confirmation email with a reference number.
If your problem is considered urgent, you’ll receive a response within 2 hours. All other problems will be responded to within 24 hours.
Last updated 5 April 2024 + show all updates
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Planned downtime for the online reporting form, from 7:30pm on Friday 5 April 2024 to 7am on Saturday 6 April 2024.
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Planned downtime for the online reporting form, from 10pm to 11pm on Monday 25 March 2024 has been added.
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Planned downtime for the online reporting form, from 8pm on Friday 1 March 2024 to 7am on Saturday 2 March 2024 has been added.
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You should now call the Imports and exports helpline to report a problem when registering for the Customs Declaration Service.
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First published.