Q&A from Webinar “Are you CDS ready?”


The following questions were submitted during the webinar “Are you CDS ready?”
presented by Martin Meacock and and Howard Marsh on 23 June 2022.

Regarding GVMS declarations: currently we have to enter RRS01 as an AI statement. Where would this be shown using CDS? Also, the LRN number is the generated reference we need to collect a transit document. Is this related to that in any way?

Yes, RRS01 is still used on CDS as it is in CHIEF along with a GVMS goods location. The LRN is used in a similar way as Transit and can be but does not have to be the same as CDS and NCTS are independent systems.

When CHIEF ends,what happens when for example we need to interrogate an entry DEVD, or arrive an entry that has slipped through ANGA?

Interesting question, as CHIEF (DEVD and ANGA are CHIEFcommands) will still exist for Exports (until end of March 2023) it is possible the ability to finalise a declaration will continue but the ability to submit new declarations will cease however,we wouldnotrecommend leaving it until the last moment.

HMRC have said that CDS is digital and paperless. Can we as agents and our importer clients (and assume sub agents, if their EORIs used on declaration) view all declarations completed on the Government Gateway?

The Government Gateway dashboard for the EORI holder will give access to this data. In e-Customs we have replicated C88 and E2 ‘look-a-likes’. That would be the preference, the requirement for "paper" is more likely going to be driven by customers than Customs however MSS type functionality is still on the Customs backlog.

Do you know how long 999L will be around for with CDS?

HMRC have just said it is 'temporary' and we assume it will be assessed for abuse.

Do we need to add a CCG for a client’s deferment account if dutiable?

No, see https://www.gov.uk/guidance/check-if-you-can-get-a-guarantee-waiver-for-a-duty-deferment-account-in-great-britain

I have done 5 live CDS entries already (DESTIN8) and cannot view any of them on Government Gateway

MSS type functionality is still on theCustoms backlog. We will pass on to HMRC

I think with FR1 for 3/39 for PVA, I have had to leave last 3 suffix of EORI out to work. Hasanyone else found that too?

For PVA, use the VAT number (9 digits) not the EORI.

If an agent switches two digits of the EORI in error (let's assume a new client) how will we know we have used the wrong client's if the E2 is self-generated and not returnby HMRC, as the current CHIEF version will read EORI input and feedback the company associated with it.

Assuming the EORI is valid you will not, CDS does not return this data and if the trader has not made their data visible in the EORI database you will not be able to check it either.

Are there many changes for Export declarations?

Yes, new mandatory fieldsare,for example,Routing, SEALand the GB/NI(XI)Office of Exitand the LRN as per CDS imports.

If there is no guarantee required,can we leave the field blank?

Yes.

If you have a broker doing imports,dowe still need toset up a separate direct debit for imports who use our deferment account,or will nothing change?

The CHIEF and CDS are separate systems,so a direct debit is need for each system for deferment accounts.

As you mentioned no need to declare the A00 or B00, do we still need to declare the method of payment on the item level?

Yes.

When using the test system & validating & sending, what does the error 'DESCARTES PCM VALIDATION PROBLEM' mean? There is no info box for this?

Have you ticked the 'Trader Dress Rehearsal (TDR) box on the CDSentry screen? If you have and are still getting the issue,please raise a ticket with details of the error stating on UAT and who you are as it may be a set up issue.If you open the Messages / Validation / Response button,it will show you some further detail on the CDS error.

In CDS an Exporter/Importer must have special authorisations for exporting/importing their cargo?If yes, what and when apply?

No, for a straight forward import, they just need an EORI. They can then pay taxes by debit card / bank transfer if they wish or use a broker's account.

Did you say for all Exports you will need to use EXA?

EXA is only used for CSE (oldLCP procedure) or locations where there is insufficient capacity to arrive goods. In other cases,use EXD or another appropriate pre-arrival code as required.

How do we raise an EMCS?

EMCS remains the same as that is a separate system to CHIEF/CDS. You will of course need to add the EMCS ARC to the CDS customs entry.

Can you have an uplift % on freight charges?

The uplift functionality currently used for CHIEF in e-Customs should be implemented in CDS.

What if the commodity code is non vat applicable with no deferment account required? How does this work?

If Duty and VAT free, then no Method of Payment is required. No DAN or associated authorisation holder / guarantee will be needed. VATZ may still need to bedeclared as an additional Tariff Code.

Can you change to the agent deferment if the importers haveinsufficient funds?

No, the declaration will have passed the point of amendment so you would either need to fund the account or cancel and resubmit.

Does dual use of CHIEF and CDS mean able to submit live entries in both systems until September?

Yes, so we suggest you choose either a port or customer(s) to start doing CDS declarations to get comfortable,while still using CHIEF for others.

Does a trader or forwarder using their own Duty Deferment account need a Comprehensive Customs Guarantee?

No -see https://www.gov.uk/guidance/check-if-you-can-get-a-guarantee-waiver-for-a-duty-deferment-account-in-great-britain

On the items line, there are balance sections with red negative values. Is that an internal configuration or is this something we need to balance out?

This is optional, these are just comparing anything on header with the sum of the line items,but header values are optional.

If the importer has an E9 and we have to cancel to change mop, who then resets the entry if linked to GVMS?

Whoever submitted the GVMS

Can we start running dual system live now?

Yes, for imports.

Can GBPR still be used for a private importer/exporter?

For GBPR type imports no EORI is entered just full name and address.

For PVA where on header level do we insert EORI no & code FR1 you mentioned a few mins ago?

It is the VAT number and under Additional Parties / Holders of Authorisation.

Do you need to complete all fields for imports?

No,they are 'conditional' and come into play as needed.

How do you declare 2 SPOFFS when dealing with diversions between 2 traders holding 2 different authorisations if CDS only accepts SPOFFS at header level?

You cannot, consignee must be at header on an import so you should not have a single declaration with two different traders.

Where do you get that form for the DD CDS duty deferment?

See HMRC .gov website for CDS deferment -https://www.gov.uk/guidance/set-up-a-direct-debit-for-a-duty-deferment-account-on-the-customs-declaration-service

From a customer’spoint of view, they just need to submit the CDS duty defermentdirect debit, dothey need to authorise for CDS through the gateway also? If they are not doing the entries themselves?

Yes, for a broker to be able to quote their deferment account.

Can you please remind me regarding red/blue data elements?

Red is Mandatory at that level; Blue is Mandatory at either Header or Item level.

Does the importer have to be registered on CDS to make an immediate payment?

They would be under the Gateway account as they will make that payment via the Gateway account.

Where can Ifind the self-guidedlearning material?

In e-customs,go to main menu -status and help -ONLINE HELP and see various CDS details. Tariff details user guides and examples of CDS declarationsetc or use the '?' icon on the system screens.

What is the new CPCexport code for CDS?

There are many. If you mean for a ‘Permanent Export’, which under CHIEF was 10 00 001,the 1040 plus additional procedure code

Have HMRC given a reason why we cannot change the method of payment?

This is a question for HMRC to confirm. From a technical point of view,we believe this is where CDS has finalised processing and passedit to another HMRC finance component.

How would we cancel an entry with no HCI like CHIEF (XTCE in CHIEF)?

There is CDS action for that as per demo -Button cancel declaration.

How do we know if our non-inventory linked entries are cleared and how do we prove that without having DEVD?

Unlike CHIEF CDS sends an explicit clearance or release status (DMSCLE/DMSROG)to the submitting party. You can send an enquiry messageto CDS which will show the person enquiring the status.

Can we currently use CDS live for ports other than Belfast?

Yes, you can.

Will DMSQRY be on Declarant's account or Trader's?

Declarant.

We do declarations using badges with CNS and MCP, we also do GVMS. We need to configure badges with MCP and CNS,what do we need to do about GVMS Non inventory? Do we need to do anything?

Non inventory can be sent either via your CNS / MCP badges or direct to CDS. If direct to CDS and you are using Descartes e-customs software you need to authorise e-Customs as shown in the demo. It doesn't matter which route you use, using RRS01 makes the data available for use in GVMS.

Where can we find information regarding post Vat accounting and how to declare it?

This was mentioned while thescreen was frozen. Details are in our help guide, in Additional Parties / Authorisation Holders enter the VAT Number under Address ID and Code as FR1. You can search for FR1 in the CDS Import Declaration section.

How will CDS work with raising EMCS?

Same as today with CHIEF.

Can we raise an EMCS direct from CDS?

Yes,if you mean creating an EMCS from a CDS import for Port and Inland movement to an Excise warehouse.

Are we able to get some of the same reports that we currently have for CHIEF entries? For example,CFSP reports for SDIs, reports showing SFDs and their acceptance dates etc.

There are arange of CDS reports,although not all reports have yet been duplicated. Please raise any specific requirements via Service Desk if you find a specific report missing.

Are we going to get C79 and PVA stmt? Or do we have to download from government gate way account?

Online via GOVT GATEWAY

Is the test environment what HMRC call 'dress rehearsal'?

Yes,and in e-customs that is open for use via the https://uat.e-customs.descartes.com

What is simplified IPR?

IPR where no prior authorisation is held, application by declaration.

Do we think HMRC would permit cancellation for dan funds and alternative payment method desired?

That is difficult to predict, HMRC may insist the funds are released especially if the goods have undergone previous query / risking.

How mature is the UI? Are there changes proposed/considered at the moment or is it quite mature?

The UI is reasonably mature but always open to suggestions, please do so via ServiceDesk.

Can we bulk load products,or do we need to edit them manually?

We have an option to do that. Please raise a ticket stating that request clearly and our Professional services will provide a spec to work with you to do that.

Can the customers/importers view the declarations in their own GG login?(instead of asking for""E2"" equivalent)

We believe that is still on the HMRC backlog.

How long does the deferment authority last?

That is a question for HMRC to confirm. We think indefinitely or until cancelled by the trader.

Do consignees need to register for CDS or is it just Declarants?

They need to register if they want to get their C79s and view / manage their financial accounts.

Are Routes still going to be a thing?

CSPs may still use "routes" to limit their inhouse developments but for CDS no routes are used. There is either a blocking or non-blocking control. We have a comparison available in the ONLINE HELP reference library section.

Which import number would we use for GVMS?

The MRN.

When CHIEF is shut down, will that effectively stop production of E2 reports etc.?

You can still access old prints ine-customs but no new ones will be generated from CHIEF.

Is Office of Exit also required? For exports? If yes, do we add a random office of exit?

Yes, it is still required. You should indicate where you expect the goods to exit, if in reality it differs CDS will be updated when the departure notification is submitted.

I do an equal amount of phase 1 and inventory linked, is there anything I mustdo specifically on the CSP?

No,just ensure the badges are configured with the CSP for use in CDS and specify what software you are using as they have a config for each one.

What about private importers ie personal effects?

For GBPR type imports no EORI is entered just full name and address.

Will all the screens be the same for exports as it is for imports?

Similar although exports do have a different data requirement.

How do you view who has authorised you to use their DAN?

If they have allowed you to see their balance,then it should be visible on your dashboard.

The government gateway that I use currently is linked to our VAT, Intrastat and previously EC Sales. Will this carry over to the new government gateway or will we have to link it all again?

That is question for HMRC to confirm.

Do customers need to register for CDS if they have an own deferment account & are using an agent for entries?

They need to register if they want to get their C79s and view / manage their financial accounts including authorising the use of their deferment account.

Please explain the DUNS number?

DUNS is a Dun & Bradstreet number see https://www.dnb.com/duns-number.html
We use it as one of the main identifiers for trading partners on our network.

Can you clone a warehouse removal, like we do now?

Yes.

Does this mean that we now have to make 2 different declarations if a single piece of cargo will be imported under a different CPC?

Yes, if they fall under different declaration categories within CDS, e.g.,Free Circulation, IPR and TA would need 3 declarations.

Did I understand you correct, are we not able to use different CPC codes in the same declaration? CPC codes and declaration category is not the same. Could we for example mix 4000 000 and 4000 1CG?

Those should be allowed on 1 declaration, it is only if they fall under different categories, e.g. Free Circulation, IPR and TA, that you would need 3 declarations for example.

The CDS import standard form looks simple, creating it does not. Will we have a template we can copy on imports once we get a product accepted by HMRC with no errors?

Yes, you can save and edit templates within the Descartes e-customs software.

Can you track the progress on exports as now with prelodgement, arrived P2P?Will we get a departed message?

Yes, you will see the history under Messages / Validation / Responses. Andyes, you will get a DMSEOG.

Will all exports receive a departure message, through inventory and non-inventorylinked ports?

Yes, a DMSEOG.

If you are a representative on the entry and the declarant has the authorisation for the deferment or the cash account,does that still work or does the importer need to authorise the representative? So if the declarant has the authorisations they have to authorise the representative as well for agent to agent work. We don't have contact with the importers as that is the declarant.

As long as one of the parties is authorized,it should work,but worth testing.The Representative is the person the importer has contracted to act on their behalf, thedeclarant is the party submitting the declaration.

When we get our CSP badges set up for use on CDS -can they still be used on CHIEF up until 30th September?

Yes.

With regards to using a customer’s deferment, do you always have to enter their CCG number?Or if they have a waiver on the declaration as well as the authorisation number?

You only have to enter a CCG number if they have one, for deferment it should no longer be necessary by default in GB.

As an agent,we are not always the declarant on entries. Sometimes our customer would be. Would they need to authorise us to use their deferment account on the dashboard? Or as they would be the declarant,would only their CCG / waiver need to be shown on the declaration along with their deferment number?

As the person submitting the declaration HMRC would expect you to be the declarant, the other person would declared as the representative unless theywere the importer. You can test using TDR.

Are the upload file formats for name address and flight data the same?

Yes.

If we need to change the port -how do we do this? Currently in CHIEF, once validated,this cannot be done (grey box)?

This would be an amendment, but if you change to a port operated by a different CSP, then this will cause issues which may result in the declaration becoming in a stuck status.

Will there be any way we can check if our customers have registered for CDS before making a real or test declaration?

Not without them confirming

Is the immediate payment of taxes available 24/7?

It is our understanding this is an automated service,so should be 24/7;whereas FAS required on some manually matching of funds.

So,we can no longer have 2 headings on 1 entry....1 being IPR goods and 1 being free circ goods?

Correct, confirmed you get a CDS error if you try and combine a 40 series procedure code with a 51 series procedure code.

Can you advise if we can change deferment numbers if there is anE9 rather than change the MOP,which we realise is not an option?

You cannot amend anything once the customs "position" has been determined and the final tax calculated.

Would you advise to use deferment and immediate only as a broker and stay away from cash accounts for easier admin?

Not necessarily, it is whatever works. If you use IEPN to make specific payments,then immediate is probably better for you.

How do the FEC checks work now as there is a column on summary now?

FEC (Front End Credibility) are non-blocking checks, if you get one and spot it in the 10-minute dwell time you can either amend if it is indeed wrong data or send a nil amendment.

On our SFDs,we include the Supervising Office. Is there an option to add this in CDS please?

Yes, if required by the Customs Procedure

Ready to get started and want to book a date for CDS to be set up?