Introduction
Traveling to the UK in 2025? Whether you are returning from a holiday or arriving for business, you must know when and how to complete a UK customs declaration. Failing to declare goods correctly can result in delays, fines, or even confiscation of your items.
In this guide, we explain what a customs declaration is, when you need to declare goods, the current UK duty free allowance, and how ExpressDeclare makes the process quick and stress-free.
What is a UK Customs Declaration?
A UK customs declaration is a legal form that travelers must complete when bringing goods into the United Kingdom. It informs HMRC (UK customs authority) about the type, quantity, and value of goods you are carrying, so taxes and duties can be applied if necessary.
👉 Quick Answer: You must complete a UK customs declaration when bringing goods worth more than your duty-free allowance, restricted items (like alcohol, tobacco), or commercial goods into the UK.
When Do You Need to Declare Goods Entering the UK?
You must declare goods entering the UK if:
- The total value of goods exceeds your UK duty free allowance
- You are carrying restricted or controlled items (alcohol, tobacco, cash, certain foods)
- Goods are for business, resale, or commercial use
- You are carrying more than €10,000 (or equivalent) in cash
Important: Not declaring goods can result in fines or seizure of items by HMRC.
UK Duty Free Allowance in 2025
The UK duty free allowance currently allows you to bring in:
- Alcohol: 42 liters of beer, 18 liters of wine, OR 4 liters of spirits
- Tobacco: 200 cigarettes, 100 cigarillos, 50 cigars, OR 250g tobacco
- Other goods: Up to £390 (or £270 if arriving by private plane/boat)
If your goods exceed these limits, you must complete a customs declaration form UK before arriving at the border.
How to Complete a UK Customs Declaration Online
With ExpressDeclare, the process is fast and hassle-free:
- Visit ExpressDeclare.com
- Select “UK Customs Declaration”
- Enter details of your items (type, value, quantity)
- Submit online and get instant confirmation
- Present your digital declaration at the UK border
⏱️ Takes only a few minutes — much faster than paper forms at airports.
Why Use ExpressDeclare?
- ✅ Simple, step-by-step guided forms
- ✅ Fast & secure digital submission
- ✅ Multilingual support (English, French, Italian, Dutch)
- ✅ Avoid costly mistakes and penalties
- ✅ Trusted by travelers across Europe
Conclusion
If you’re traveling to the UK, it’s essential to know your UK duty free allowance and when you must declare goods entering the UK. By completing your UK customs declaration online with ExpressDeclare, you save time at the border and avoid unexpected fines.
Start your customs declaration today at ExpressDeclare.com
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Do I need to declare alcohol when entering the UK?
Yes, if you carry more than the duty free allowance (e.g., over 4 liters of spirits or 18 liters of wine).
Q2: What happens if I don’t declare goods in the UK?
HMRC may issue fines, seize goods, or take legal action if items are undeclared.
Q3: Can I complete a UK customs declaration form online?
Yes, with ExpressDeclare you can submit your customs declaration form online in minutes and avoid long queues at the airport.