Importer & Exporter of Record Services in United Kingdom
The United Kingdom remains a vital trade hub, but post-Brexit customs processes are more complex. Importers now face stricter VAT, customs checks, and compliance rules that can disrupt supply chains. That’s where IOR EOR comes in—managing VAT, declarations, and certifications (CE/UKCA, RoHS, REACH) to keep IT, telecom, medical, automotive, and aviation equipment moving smoothly. From major ports to inland hubs, we make UK trade seamless and compliant.
IOR & EOR Responsibilities in the UK
The importer of record Britain ensures compliant imports, while the EOR manages regulatory obligations for exports — keeping your business aligned with UK trade rules.
Acting as your UK-based legal importer/exporter
Filing customs declarations & paying duties (HMRC)
Handling VAT registration (20%) & reclaim (HMRC)
Ensuring CE/UKCA, RoHS, REACH compliance (BEIS)
Providing export licenses for dual-use items via the SPIRE system (UK Gov)
Maintaining accurate import/export records
UK Trade Compliance at a Glance
Indicator | Value |
|---|---|
VAT | 20% |
Duty Range | 0–12% average (HS code dependent) |
Customs Clearance | 1–5 business days |
Used Goods | Allowed under specific HMRC conditions |
Key Authorities | HMRC, BEIS, UK Border Force |
Top Imports | IT, Telecom, Medical, Aviation, Automotive |
When Do You Need IOR or EOR Services in the UK?
You need IOR/EOR services when:
You lack a UK legal entity
Importing IT/telecom gear requiring CE/UKCA, RoHS, and REACH approval
Importing medical equipment regulated by the MHRA
Exporting dual-use items needing SPIRE licenses
Managing temporary imports (repairs, trade shows) and reverse logistics compliance UK returns — ensuring goods that cross back out of the UK are legally filed and compliantly documented before departure.
Avoiding Brexit-related delays or penalties
How We Help – Sector-Specific Solutions
Sector | Key Compliance Needs |
|---|---|
IT & Telecom | UKCA/CE certification, RoHS, REACH — all central elements of post-Brexit import regulations that now apply independently of EU standards and must be satisfied before IT and telecom equipment can be legally cleared into the UK. |
Medical Devices | MHRA registration, ISO 13485 compliance |
Automotive | E-mark, EMC standards, and spare parts import rules |
Aviation | CAA rules, DO-160 & ARP4754 certifications |
Understanding Duties, Taxes & DDP in UK
Importing into the UK after Brexit means navigating new duties, VAT rules, and stricter compliance requirements. Here are the essentials every importer should know:
Import Duties
HS code–based, typically 0–12%
VAT
import VAT UK is charged at a flat 20% on imports and is reclaimable if you are VAT-registered in the UK.
Brexit Impact
EU IORs no longer valid; UK EORI now required
Export Licenses
Dual-use and military goods need SPIRE authorization
Be in the Know
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Our Full IOR & EOR Service in UK Includes:
UK-based legal representation
Customs clearance with HMRC
VAT registration, payment & reclaim
CE/UKCA, RoHS & REACH compliance checks
Export licensing via SPIRE
Temporary imports & returns management
Full shipment visibility and compliance updates
Why Choose IOR/EOR for the UK?
Brexit-Proof
Seamless compliance with post-Brexit UK rules.
Regulatory Mastery
Expertise in HMRC, UKCA, MHRA, and CAA.
VAT Simplified
We handle VAT registration, reclaim, and reporting.
End-to-End Cover
One partner for both import and export compliance.
No UK Entity
We act as your legal representative in the UK.
Get Your IOR/EOR Solution in UK Today
Post-Brexit compliance requires a trusted UK-based IOR/EOR partner. IOR/EOR manages VAT, customs, and certifications to ensure your imports and exports move without delays — see how we delivered real results in our electronics import compliance case study covering duty overpayment reduction across Europe and North America.
IOR/EOR manages VAT, customs, and certifications to ensure your imports and exports move without delays.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, but you must have a UK-based Importer of Record (IOR) or a local legal entity. Without one, your shipment cannot clear customs.
Brexit introduced stricter VAT requirements, customs declarations, and product certifications (UKCA, RoHS, REACH). These changes increased paperwork and compliance risks for non-UK companies.
Most imports are subject to 20% VAT, though some goods (e.g., medical or essential items) may qualify for reduced or zero rates.
Common requirements include UKCA or CE marking, along with RoHS and REACH compliance for electronics. Medical devices may also require MHRA approval.
Only if your business has a registered UK entity. Foreign companies without local registration must use an IOR service provider.
Clearance can take 24–72 hours if documents and duties are in order — once goods cleared through UK customs, the shipment proceeds directly to release and final delivery at the named destination. Complex shipments or missing paperwork can extend this timeframe.
