Fast and accurate import declarations.
Minimise delays, reduce costs and ensure compliance with Europe’s leading customs and import specialists.
For quick, compliant and cost-effective imports, trust Gaston Schul
We’ve been helping businesses navigate customs import declarations across Europe and the rest of the world for over 175 years. We offer independent and expert advice, exhaustive services and an innovative, forward-thinking approach that’s trusted by leading logistic service providers and importers to clear customs and release goods as quickly as possible.
Our European import experts can help you
Craft import declarations
We handle all import paperwork, certificates and licences
Oversee custom inspections
We guide you through all inspections to reduce delays
Examine original documents
We ensure all import documents are present and correct
Reduce or eliminate duties
We can consolidate shipments for lower declaration fees
Ensure compliance
We review everything from HS codes to the accuracy of declared values
Pay duties and taxes
We manage the payment of taxes and duties on your behalf
Ensuring compliance and reducing costs
Don’t pay more than you need
Our consultancy and advisory services team is on hand to keep you compliant and minimise costs. Before the declaration is submitted, we implement several measures to calculate the most cost-efficient customs value possible. These include:
- Assigning correct commodity (HS) codes for duty optimisation
- Leveraging trade agreements to reduce or eliminate duties
- Consolidating shipments for lower declaration fees
- Identifying savings opportunities through audit reviews
Gaston Schul takes the customs hassle away from Pfauth's customers.
Robbert Pfauth
CEO, Pfauth Logistics
Accelerating the declaration process
The faster way to clear customs
The quicker you can get your goods moving, the better. Our comprehensive service is centred on speed, accuracy and compliance. We take several steps to ensure your goods clear customs as quickly and as efficiently as possible. This includes the following:
- Providing regular, quick and clear updates
- Pre-arrival product checks and applications
- Leveraging automation to optimise speed and efficiency
- Integrating with your shipping and inventory systems
- Providing access to our digital portal
Specialist customs services
Expert advice and certificates for your industry
Gaston Schul provides expert customs clearance capabilities to several specialist industries, including Perishable and Veterinary goods. We’re the trusted partner for leading companies in these sectors and provide the following services:
- TRACES or IPAFFS notifications
- Classification support
- Fiscal representation in Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands.
- Customs valuation calculations
- Quota usage guidance
- Anti-Dumping Duty support
Your full-service customs provider
Consultancy & Advisory
Strengthen and improve your customs processes with our expert advice and services. We’ll help you seize new trading opportunities, transform your supply chain and guarantee compliance is at the forefront of every decision.
Digital Solutions
Transform your data with Gaston Schul’s Customs Data Exchange. We can build EDI and API-powered real-time data transfers that reduce errors, accelerate declarations and improve the efficiency of your supply chain.
Control Tower
Coordinate and consolidate your global customs activities by utilising our Control Tower. Our end-to-end global customs management service makes it easy to manage and orchestrate your global customs activities from anywhere in the world.
Customer Stories
See how real customers succeed with Gaston Schul
Import Declarations FAQs
What do I need to import my goods?
To import goods into the UK or the EU, it's essential you have an EORI (Economic Operators Registration and Identification) number, along with the commercial paperwork. For UK shipments, you must have a GB EORI. For Norway, you`ll require a Norwegian Organisation Number instead.
How do I get an EORI?
You can get an EORI number by applying through your country's official customs website or by using a trade partner like Gaston Schul to support you.
How do I apply for a Norwegian Organisation Number?
You can register your business by visiting The Brønnøysund Register Centre website.
How do I register for the UK`s Customs Declaration Service (CDS)?
To register for the Customs Declaration Service (CDS), visit the HMRC website and follow the registration process. You'll need your EORI number, Government Gateway ID, and relevant business details to complete the registration.
What paperwork is required for my declaration?
For your customs declaration, you`ll need a commercial invoice detailing the transaction, Incoterms®, and goods. You`ll also require a packing list, the correct commodity (HS) code(s), plus any preference certificates or statements relating to your shipment such as an EUR1, REX Statement or invoice declaration. These documents are crucial for customs to assess duties and taxes.
Should I use PVA for my UK shipments, and what does it mean?
PVA (Postponed VAT Accounting) can be used by VAT-registered businesses in the UK to account for import VAT on their VAT return, rather than paying upfront at the border. It's beneficial for cash flow.
Can I claim preference or duty relief? How do I do this?
You can claim preference or duty relief if your goods qualify under trade agreements or specific relief programs. To do this, simply provide your proof of origin, such as an EUR1 certificate, REX statement, or invoice declaration, when submitting your commercial paperwork to our team.
How do my Incoterms® affect my shipment?
Incoterms® define the responsibilities between the buyers and sellers of international shipments, including who pays for shipping, insurance, and customs duties. Your chosen Incoterm (e.g., FOB, CIF, EXW) can significantly impact cost, responsibility, and your customs value, which determines the amount of duty you pay.
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