If your business carries out international trade and moves goods between countries, you will need to register for the Goods Vehicle Movement Service (GVMS). This system, designed to streamline the movement of goods across borders and in this guide we’ll explain if you need to register with and setup the GVMS.
The process to register for the Goods Vehicle Movement Service might seem daunting at first, but it’s a straightforward procedure when broken down into manageable steps. This article will walk readers through the key information needed before starting the registration, offer a detailed step-by-step guide to complete the process, and explain what to expect after registration. By the end, businesses will be well-equipped to navigate the GVMS registration process, ensuring they’re ready to move goods efficiently across borders.
GVMS Registration: Key Information
Eligibility Criteria
To register for the Goods Vehicle Movement Service (GVMS), businesses must meet specific criteria. Firstly, they need to obtain a Government Gateway user ID and password . If a business doesn’t have one, they can create it during the registration process. Secondly, companies must have a GB EORI (Economic Operator Registration and Identification) number . This unique identifier is crucial for customs-related activities in the UK.
The GVMS registration is mandatory for various entities involved in moving goods across borders. This includes independent drivers handling their own customs formalities, companies subcontracting goods collection, logistics firms hired to transport and complete customs procedures, and large retail businesses transporting and declaring their own goods.
Registration Deadlines
The timeline for GVMS registration has evolved since its introduction. From 1 January 2022, all hauliers moving goods through UK ports that use the GVMS need to register for the service to get their goods through customs . This applies to movements between Great Britain (England, Wales, and Scotland) and the European Union, as well as between Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
It’s important to note that for hauliers moving goods into Great Britain from the EU, registration was initially only required if the goods were moving under the Common Transit Convention or transit . However, this requirement has since expanded to cover all goods movements through GVMS-enabled ports.
Benefits of Early Registration
Registering for the GVMS early offers several advantages to businesses involved in cross-border trade. One key benefit is the speed of obtaining a Goods Movement Reference (GMR). For existing GVMS users, getting a GMR can happen in as little as 30 seconds after submitting a customs declaration with all relevant cargo information .
Early registration also allows businesses to familiarise themselves with the system, reducing the risk of delays or complications during actual goods movements. It’s worth noting that without a goods movement reference, companies cannot move goods through ports using the GVMS and may face delays at the port .
Moreover, the GVMS brings together multiple declaration reference numbers into a single goods movement reference, which speeds up the clearance of goods through customs . This streamlined process can significantly enhance efficiency in cross-border trade operations, making early registration a strategic move for businesses looking to optimise their logistics processes.
Step-by-Step GVMS Registration Guide
Creating a Government Gateway Account
To begin the registration process for the Goods Vehicle Movement Service (GVMS), businesses need to have a Government Gateway user ID and password . This account is essential for accessing various customs services, including GVMS. If a company doesn’t already have a user ID for customs services, they can create one during the registration process .
Applying for an EORI Number
A valid GB EORI (Economic Operator Registration and Identification) number is crucial for GVMS registration . To apply for an EORI number, businesses need to provide specific information:
- Unique Taxpayer Reference (UTR)
- Business start date and Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) code
- VAT number and effective date of registration (if VAT registered)
- National Insurance number (for individuals or sole traders)
For businesses not based in the UK, some requirements differ. They don’t need a UTR, SIC code, or National Insurance number . The application process involves signing in or creating new sign-in details. In most cases, the GB EORI number is issued immediately, but it may take up to 5 working days if additional checks are required .
Completing the GVMS Registration Form
Once the prerequisites are in place, businesses can proceed with the GVMS registration:
- Use the Government Gateway user ID and password to access the registration form .
- Ensure the GB EORI number is linked to the Government Gateway account. This linkage can occur in three ways:
- For new GB EORI applicants, the number will be automatically linked during GVMS registration.
- If using an existing Government Gateway ID for other customs services, use the same one for GVMS.
- For businesses with a GB EORI but no recent online customs service usage, enter the EORI during registration to link it .
- Complete the online registration for the “Get a Goods Movement Reference” service .
It’s important to note that GVMS registration is mandatory for various entities involved in cross-border goods movement. This includes independent drivers handling their own customs paperwork, subcontractors, logistics businesses, and large retail companies transporting and declaring their own goods . Customs agents, freight forwarders, or other third parties contracted to complete customs procedures on behalf of these entities must also register for GVMS .
Post-Registration Procedures
Accessing the GVMS Platform
After successful registration, businesses can access the Goods Vehicle Movement Service (GVMS) platform. To use the GVMS API, companies must sign in using the Government Gateway user ID that was registered for the service . It’s important to note that the API only supports organisation users, and the grant for access is configured to last 18 months .
For haulage agents or Customs Support Providers (CSPs) acting on behalf of multiple hauliers, the software should use a Government Gateway account registered to GVMS with the agent’s or CSP’s own EORI . In this configuration, HMRC will consider the haulage agent or CSP as the haulier for each Goods Movement Reference (GMR) created .
Creating and Managing Goods Movement References
Once registered, businesses have two options for creating a GMR:
- Access the GVMS system directly and input the required data .
- Activate the GMR automation process within the Trader Support Service (TSS) .
The GMR automation process aims to reduce manual administrative work and improve compliance . To be eligible for TSS GMR automation, movements must meet specific criteria, including being GB-NI only and using RoRo (accompanied/unaccompanied) GVMS ports .
To create a GMR, businesses need to provide essential information such as the Route ID and Transport Details . Once saved, the GMR can be submitted, sending all GMR details along with any authorised or arrived consignments’ MRN details to GVMS .
The GMR ID, which is crucial for port access, can be communicated through various means:
- Through a link to the port
- Uploading it into the ferry booking
- Providing it to the truck driver for check-in at the port/ferry
Businesses can monitor the status of all GMRs related to their account through the GMR dashboard in the TSS Portal . This dashboard allows users to update, submit, and cancel GMRs as needed.
Applying for the GVMS
The Goods Vehicle Movement Service has a significant impact on streamlining cross-border trade operations. By following the step-by-step registration process outlined in this guide, businesses can ensure they’re well-prepared to use the GVMS effectively. This preparation includes obtaining the necessary Government Gateway credentials, securing a GB EORI number, and completing the registration form accurately.
Once registered, companies can take full advantage of the GVMS platform to create and manage Goods Movement References efficiently. This system brings together multiple declaration references into a single GMR, making customs clearance faster and more straightforward. By understanding and utilising the GVMS, businesses can improve their productivity in international trade, reducing delays and enhancing their overall logistics processes.
FAQs
1. How is an MRN (Movement Reference Number) obtained?
The Customs Declaration Service (CDS) automatically issues a unique MRN for every import and export declaration processed, including those that are pre-lodged.
2. Is registration necessary for the Goods Vehicle Movement Service (GVMS)?
Yes, registration for the GVMS is mandatory for both UK-based and international carriers. This also includes independent drivers who manage their own customs formalities and companies that are subcontracted to collect goods on behalf of another business.
3. What is the typical timeframe for receiving a GMR (Goods Movement Reference)?
You can typically obtain a GMR within 30 minutes from the service Customs 4 All.
4. Who is required to have a GMR number?
According to HMRC, a GMR is essential for lorry drivers using the ‘pre-lodgement’ model for a ferry crossing to a GB port. Each GMR is specific to a single crossing and can only be used once.
