Importing and exporting goods
On 1 January 2021, the transition period with the EU ended, and Jersey now operates a full, external border as determined by the Islands obligations under the (UK-Crown Dependencies (CD) Customs Arrangement. This means that controls are placed on the movement of goods between Jersey and the EU.
United Kingdom Crown Dependencies Customs Arrangement
Recognising that the changes are significant, and their impact compounded by the pandemic, the Government of Jersey took the decision to introduce the new border controls in phases throughout 2021 to help business adjust. However, the 1 January 2022 marked the end of this approach.
From 1 January 2022
Full customs declarations and controls were introduced. Traders have to complete their declarations upon or before the arrival of their goods
From the end of 2023 (Shippers only)
Safety and Security declarations on imports will be required
Jersey’s Border Operating Model
The United Kingdom (UK) published its Border Operating Model. This outlined how it will introduce phased customs controls over several stages between 1 January 2021 and the end of 2023. The Jersey Border Operating Model explains how Jersey will simultaneously implement the same controls.
Jersey Border Operating Model
Economic Operator Registration and Identification (EORI numbers)
An EORI (Economic Operator Registration and Identification) number is currently required by businesses and people undertaking certain customs functions. The UK will operate a UK EORI scheme separate to the EU’s. A UK EORI will have 12 digits prefaced with the letters “GB” and will only be valid for declarations made in the UK. The document below provides general guidance in relation to EORI numbers while stressing that if in doubt the best option is to apply for one.
The
GOV.UK EORI page includes Channel Island specific guidance. If you’re based in Jersey, you only need an EORI number if:
Economic Operator Registration and Identification
Customs traders and agents
From 1 January 2022, all imported and exported goods require a customs declaration. A range of customs procedures are available that enable goods to move freely where possible including simplified procedures that reduce administrative overheads. The objective of these facilitations is to reduce friction at the border and to minimise the cost burden on traders while ensuring effective customs controls.
Traders are encouraged to review the procedures available in the context of their unique circumstances. Find more information on
customs traders and agents.
For more information email rgc@gov.je.
Customs Safety and Security
Safety and Security declarations on imports have been required since 1 July 2022.
Customs and Excise (Safety and Security) (Import) (Jersey) Order 2021
Customs and Excise (Safety and Security) (Export) (Jersey) Order 2019
Business and Security Guide
Trader guidance for imports
Where goods are imported from a place outside the Customs Union by a GST registered trader or Approved General Importer, a declaration will need to be submitted by the trader by logging into their account on customs declaration and payment.
Guide for businesses for Third Country imports
Guide for businesses to pre-declaring Third Country imports
Where goods are imported from within the Customs Union, the below guidance notes will assist with the declaration process.
Guide for businesses for UK imports
Trader guidance for exports
Where goods are exported directly from Jersey to a place outside the Customs Union, an export declaration will need to be submitted by the exporter or a clearance agent on the
Customs declaration and payment website.
Trader Export Declaration guide to Third Country
Where goods are exported directly from Jersey to a place outside the Customs Union, an export declaration will need to be submitted by the exporter or a clearance agent on the
Customs declaration and payment website ahead of the corresponding export manifest. It will be necessary for the shipper or haulier to create an export manifest to attach the export declarations.
Shipper or Handling Agent Export Manifest guide to Third Country
gov.je