EXPP5260 - Customs Handling of Import and Export Freight (CHIEF) export declarations: Unique Consignment Reference (UCR)

Note: This manual is under review following Brexit and is likely to be withdrawn. If there is anything within this manual you use regularly, please email hmrcmanualsteam@hmrc.gov.uk to let us know. Please check the other guidance available on GOV.UK from HMRC.

Within the National Export System (NES) the use of DUCRs (Declaration UCRs), is mandatory for traders authorised to use simplified procedures.

Under normal procedures CHIEF will derive a Declaration UCR (based upon the entry reference) when none is supplied. Inventory systems can interact with CHIEF using either the Declaration UCR or the CHIEF entry reference. Following the introduction of Economic Operator Reference and Information (EORI) and Export Control System, HMRC strongly advise that EORI based DUCRs are created.

Some air and shipping lines have indicated that they may ask for a UCR to be advised during the booking process. It is therefore recommended that all declarants, even those not authorised for simplified procedures, provide a DUCR on each export declaration.