Movement Reference Number MRN and EAD Forms

MRN Numbers for UK Imports

All carriers are asking all EU Exporters to ensure they have a valid MRN number for each export to UK. If the shipments have a value exceeding € 1,000 there will be a compulsory MRN requirement for all exports to third countries from EU.

World Options have noticed shipments are being held if a MRN number is not available at time of import to UK from EU. MRN number should be automatically created by the member state. On occasions delays can be seen or issuing an MRN, particularly when exporting from Germany.

UK Importers from EU should ask the exporting company to contact their equivalent of the Chamber of Commerce for information on how to get an MRN number for export if a MRN is not created automatically.

Having an MRN allows for the temporary suspension of duties, taxes and commercial policy measures that are applicable at import, thereby allowing customs clearance formalities to take place at the destination rather than at the point of entry into the customs territory. 

Please find link on further guidance on MRN numbers

Carriers like UPS & DHL normally complete the customs brokerage process and a Export Accompanying Document (EAD, sometime called a ABD form) with a MRN.  The EAD is created by the courier if a MRN number is automatically issued.

See below further information on EAD forms

Export accompanying document

EU to UK Customs Change from 1st January 2022

From 1st January 2022, the Goods Vehicle Movement Service (GVMS) – a new UK Government Customs system will come into force, which means an end to the easements put in place during the Brexit transition period.

• From 1st January 2022, all inbound shipments to the UK will require a pre-lodged Customs entry before departure from the EU.
• Movement Reference Numbers (MRN) from Customs entries or Transit Accompanying Documents (TAD) must be linked to the vehicle registration via the GVMS system by Uniserve.
• Vehicles will not be allowed to cross the UK border without the GVMS system being updated and all the relevant details included in advance.
• Amendments to the system after the goods have been loaded will not be possible, and penalties will be applied to undeclared goods.