Amazon UK IEN new rules take effect on June 30, 2024
According to the latest requirements of the FHDDS regulations, from January 1, 2024, all goods entering Amazon's UK fulfillment center must be provided by sellers. Import Entry Number (IEN). This regulation is designed to ensure the compliance and transparency of goods to better manage the import process and will be implemented on June 30, 2024. Failure to provide on time may result in the seller being reported by the UK Revenue and Customs (HMRC) or Amazon stopping the delivery service of the goods.
To ensure compliance, sellers must submit the Import Entry Number (IEN) within 60 days after the goods arrive at Amazon's UK fulfillment center. Failure to provide IEN within this period or provide a valid reason for the missing IEN may result in restrictions on the creation of new shipments.
What is the IEN code?
The IEN code is a unique identifier issued by HMRC for goods imported into the UK.
How do non-UK sellers obtain the IEN code?
- Use the UK VAT tax number for customs clearance: Sellers can use their own UK VAT tax number for customs clearance. In this case, the customs will provide a C88 document containing the IEN code, from which you can obtain the required IEN.
- Shipment through a freight forwarder: If you choose to clear customs through a freight forwarder, you can obtain the IEN code directly from the freight forwarder. Freight forwarders that provide double clearance and tax package services can provide IEN directly. Please note that this method may involve multiple sellers sharing the same VAT tax number, so it needs to be handled with caution.
Regardless of which method you use, make sure to update the IEN status in a timely manner to meet UK VAT and customs obligations. Failure to comply will result in Amazon restricting the entry of your products.
How to complete FHDDS compliance?
- Customs clearance method: Sellers need to use a compliant method to clear customs to ensure the legal entry of goods into the UK.
- Contact the carrier or freight forwarder: After completing customs clearance, the seller should contact the carrier or freight forwarder to obtain the IEN code.
- Update the IEN status on the seller platform: Log in to the Amazon seller platform and find the shipment number that has been cleared through the IEN. Under the affected shipment status, find the IEN window with "Incomplete import details". Please note that IEN is currently only visible and available when the shipment is in the "Arrived" stage.
- Enter a valid IEN or select a relevant reason code: If you have obtained an IEN, select "This shipment has an import record" and enter a valid IEN. If you have requested an IEN from the carrier/freight forwarder but do not have one yet, you can select the "This shipment has no import record - my products are imported, but my broker or logistics provider did not provide an IEN upon request" option. Please note that Amazon may conduct checks to ensure the validity of the answer provided.
If an IEN is not provided, will the account be immediately suspended from selling privileges?
If you do not submit an IEN or select a reason code within 60 days of the goods arriving at the UK Amazon fulfillment center, you will be restricted from creating new shipments from June 30, 2024.
Is it better to use your own store's VAT customs clearance or tax-inclusive channels?
It is recommended to use your own store's VAT customs clearance. Double clearing and tax-inclusive customs clearance does not rule out the possibility that an IEN number will be filled in multiple times by multiple sellers, increasing the risk of account association.
I am a UK seller. Does this regulation affect me?
No, this regulation mainly affects non-UK sellers. However, UK companies may still be required to provide an import declaration code when entering the warehouse, but if the company is established in the UK, this requirement can be ignored.
Use ChinaDivision to meet your cross-border logistics needs
One-stop customs clearance service: We have extensive customs clearance experience and can complete customs clearance procedures for you quickly and accurately to ensure that the goods enter Amazon's UK operations center smoothly.
IEN code acquisition and update: We will obtain your IEN code in a timely manner and assist you in completing the submission and update of IEN after the goods arrive to ensure your account is compliant.
Personalized logistics solutions: We provide personalized logistics solutions based on your specific needs to ensure that the goods are delivered to their destination safely and quickly.
Dealing with complex international transportation and compliance issues can be challenging. At ChinaDivision, we focus on providing seamless cross-border transportation services to ensure that your fragile goods are transported safely and in compliance with all regulations. Contact ChinaDivision today to find out how we can help you simplify the transportation process and ensure that your goods arrive at their destination safely and efficiently.
About the Author: Limi
Limi is a content marketing expert at ChinaDivision, helping businesses and e-commerce sellers navigate the complexities of international shipping by providing actionable tips and comprehensive guides on logistics, shipping, and cargo transportation.