Export declarations 2: The Export Control System and NES continued...

Introduction

The National Export System (NES) is a computer-based system enabling export declarations to be made electronically rather than manually. An export is classified as the movement of commercial goods from the UK to a destination outside the European Union (EU). The NES therefore only applies to goods destined for countries outside the EU.

Use of NES is mandatory for exporters. This article explains the new export Control System and NES technical information.

This is part Two of a two part article. Once you have read this article, you can read part one here.

Export Control System

The Export Control System (ECS) is the first stage of an Automated Export System (AES) that will enable a computerised European Union (EU) export system with common standards that all member states can use.

ECS is being introduced across the EU to improve control of indirect exports (indirect exports are those that leave the EU from a member state other than the one in which they originate) and introduce new safety and security measures. Several key electronic messages will be introduced in ECS to provide information for member states.

HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) is responsible for operating the ECS in the UK.

The UK's Office of Export went live on 1 July 2009, using HMRC's Customs Handling of Import and Export Freight (CHIEF) messaging and the ECN+ network.

NES technical information

There are five ways of accessing Customs Handling of Import and Export Freight (CHIEF) to make your export declaration, two of which require a digital certificate.

1. Web

Using this method you can be connected to CHIEF via the Government Gateway website.

You'll need:

• A digital certificate;
• A CHIEF role (a user identity, defined as the combination of a particular job done for a particular organisation);
• An email address.

When you sign in to the Government Gateway website, your digital certificate details will be automatically authenticated. Once you have made your declaration you'll be told whether it's been accepted or rejected.

This option also allows you to request email updates about the system or other matters of interest. It's ideal for low-volume traders who are happy to input details of each individual consignment.

2. Email

You can make your declaration by sending an email containing the relevant information. You'll need:

• A CHIEF roll;
• A CHIEF-compatible software package (EDIFACT);
• An SMTP (standard) or X400 (protocol standardised by the International Telecommunications Department) email connection.

Email cannot be used for Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) declarations.

3. XML

If you're claiming export refunds under CAP, or are just determined to have a secure route into CHIEF, this option is best suited to your needs. You'll need:

• A CHIEF roll;
• A CHIEF-compatible software package (EDIFACT), including an XML wrapped;
• A digital certificate;
• An HTTPS internet connection (a more secure connection than HTTP;
• An email address.

4. Community Systems Providers (CSP):

• CSPs run the major inventory-controlled ports around the UK. Freight agents buy annual badges to their systems and charge exporters a fee for entering goods for export on their behalf;
• Customs do not charge for use of CSP systems and any charges are set by the freight forwarders direct.

5. Custom Input Entries (CIE):

• In exceptional circumstances HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) staff will be able to input CIE declarations into CHIEF. For CAP entries you must use form C88 (CAP) CIE;
• The CIE facility at the National Clearance Hub operates 24 hours a day, 365 days of the year. After you have faxed your entry, HMRC will Endeavour to enter goods on your behalf. Please allow three to four hours for this to be completed.

It will also help if you're broadly familiar with Volume 3 of the customs Tariff which provides guidance on making export entries.

Priority goods

Consignments which require urgent dispatch by their nature, such as perishable foods, will receive priority attention.