When importing goods into the UK, choosing the right port of entry can impact not only the speed and complexity of your customs clearance but also the cost. Two common categories of ports you'll encounter are Inventory-Linked Ports and GVMS Ports (Goods Vehicle Movement Service). Understanding the difference can help you make smarter decisions — and avoid unexpected fees.

What Are Inventory-Linked Ports?

Inventory-linked ports are major seaports (like Felixstowe and Southampton) that use a port inventory system to track and manage goods as they move through the port. These systems (e.g., Destin8, CNS) require that customs declarations are matched to inventory records before goods can be released.

This means that, in addition to submitting a standard customs declaration via CDS (Customs Declaration Service), importers (or their agents) must also submit a port release notification through the port system. Without it, goods will not be cleared for delivery — regardless of the CDS status.

What Are GVMS Ports?

GVMS (Goods Vehicle Movement Service) ports, such as Dover, Eurotunnel, Holyhead, or Liverpool, operate differently. These ports are primarily used for accompanied or unaccompanied ro-ro (roll-on/roll-off) transport.

GVMS allows you to submit your declaration in advance and generate a GMR (Goods Movement Reference), which links the declaration to the vehicle transporting the goods. As long as the declaration is valid and pre-lodged, goods can move more seamlessly through the border.

No separate port system submission is required.

Inventory-Linked Ports: Why the £45 Surcharge?

Submitting declarations through inventory-linked ports adds a layer of work and complexity:

• Port release submissions (e.g., via Destin8)
• Matching MRNs to shipping records
• Coordinating with the port's internal systems
• Sometimes liaising with port clearance officers

At Customs Flow Declare, we handle this entire process on your behalf. The £45 surcharge covers the additional administrative and technical work required to ensure your goods are released without delay.

Which UK Ports Are Inventory-Linked?

Here's a breakdown of some key ports:

Inventory-Linked Ports (£45 surcharge applies):

• Felixstowe
• Southampton
• London Gateway
• Tilbury
• Immingham
• Teesport
• Hull
• Harwich

‍

GVMS-Only Ports (no surcharge):

• Dover
• Eurotunnel
• Holyhead
• Pembroke
• Fishguard
• Heysham
• Liverpool
• Newhaven

Note: This list is based on current systems as of June 2025 and may evolve.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re moving goods through a streamlined GVMS route or a more complex inventory-linked seaport, Customs Flow Declare ensures your declarations are handled with accuracy and care.

Got questions about your specific route? Reach out to us — we're here to help.

Customs Flow Declare — Smart. Simple. Compliant.

‍