Standard Exchange System (SES)

Information on Standard Exchange System.

This allows the import of replacement UK goods before or after the defective goods are temporarily exported for repair. Duties are suspended on the replacement UK goods until the repaired goods are returned.

If an exporter needs the replacement goods only for a short period while their own goods are repaired, it may be more convenient for the exporter to use the Temporary Admission arrangements. Standard Exchange System may only be used for replacement exchange of goods needing repair and cannot be used for processing goods.

Imported products (replacement products) may replace processed products when:

  • the processing operation involves repair of defective UK goods, other than UK Agricultural Product (UKAP) goods
  • replacement products shall have the same 8-digit Combined Nomenclature Code, same commercial quality, and same technical characteristics as the defective goods
  • if the defective goods have been used then the replacement goods must also be used unless the replacement product has been supplied free of charge due to a contractual or statutory obligation arising from a guarantee or because of a manufacturing defect

The customs authority must approve Standard Exchange System.