At Locaerise, we support local and sustainable procurement for schools, universities, and small businesses. As part of our mission, we recognize that purchasing and importing products internationally can be complex. Understanding UK import regulations is crucial for ensuring the smooth delivery of products and the compliance of our partners with all necessary legal requirements.
How to Determine if You Can Buy, Import, and Resell International Products in the UK
To ensure that the products you wish to purchase and resell comply with UK regulations, follow these steps:
- Check Government Guidelines: Use UK government websites to confirm if there are specific restrictions or requirements for importing certain products. Key documents and guidance include:
- Importing Goods into the UK: Check the types of goods you can import.
- Licenses & Permits: Some products may require specific licenses for import, especially controlled or restricted goods.
- Legal Counsel or Customs Broker: Consult a legal expert or customs broker for detailed compliance advice.
- Resale Rights: As the importer, you must ensure that you have the legal right to resell products in the UK. This includes verifying the authenticity of goods and their sourcing from reputable international brands.
Documentation and Compliance Requirements
When importing goods into the UK, you, as the importer, are responsible for providing specific documentation to support customs clearance. Below is a breakdown of required documents:
| Document Type | Retailer Responsibility | Procurer’s Responsibility |
|---|---|---|
| Business Documentation (if applicable) | ✔️ | |
| Import License/Permit (for controlled goods) | ✔️ | |
| Proof of Right to Resell | ✔️ | |
| Tax Identification (VAT) | ✔️ | |
| EORI Number (import registration number) | ✔️ | |
| Commercial Invoice & Packing Slip | ✔️ | ✔️ |
| Product Specific Documentation (if applicable) | ✔️ | ✔️ |
If any additional documents are required for the specific goods you’re importing (e.g., certificates of origin, health certificates), it is important to coordinate with the brands you are sourcing from.
Obtaining an EORI Number
In the UK, the Economic Operators Registration and Identification (EORI) number is essential for businesses importing goods. The EORI number is used to identify your company for customs declarations. It is free to apply for, and you can learn how to do so through UK government portals. An EORI number is required to import products into the UK.
VAT Considerations
When purchasing products internationally, VAT may apply based on the shipping location. If you are VAT registered, you will need to account for VAT on your orders. The VAT process can vary depending on the country of origin, so make sure to understand the specific tax obligations for your business.
Customs Brokers and Clearance
A customs broker can assist with navigating the complex import regulations. If you work with a broker, notify your international supplier to include the broker’s information on the commercial invoice. This ensures that the broker can facilitate the clearance process when the goods arrive in the UK.
Regulated Product Categories
Certain products are subject to tighter regulations when importing into the UK. These include but are not limited to:
- Controlled Goods: Products such as animal products, plants, high-risk food, and cosmetics require special clearance.
- Dangerous Goods: Products that pose risks to health or the environment may need additional permits and safety documentation.
- Food and Animal Products: Ensure compliance with UK food safety regulations when importing food, supplements, or any animal-based goods.
- Cosmetics and Skin Products: Ensure that cosmetic products comply with UK safety standards before importing them.
- Children’s Products: Toys and other children’s goods must meet specific safety regulations.
Import Duties and Taxes
Import duties and taxes will apply to most goods coming into the UK. These fees are calculated based on the nature of the goods and their country of origin. Retailers should be aware of these charges and factor them into their cost structures. Locaerise emphasizes transparent pricing and encourages partners to calculate these costs before purchasing.
Customs Delays and Additional Information
If a shipment is delayed at customs, you, as the importer, are responsible for providing any additional documentation required. The customs agency may reach out to you, and failure to respond promptly can result in delays or the return of goods.
At Locaerise, we guide our partners through these processes to ensure smooth operations, especially for small and sustainable businesses looking to expand. By staying informed about UK import regulations, you can confidently source international products while remaining compliant with all necessary laws.
