Data Elements in CDS replace 'Boxes' in CHIEF. While boxes and data elements are similar, they are not exactly the same.

In CDS, you may need to complete up to 76 data elements for imports and 65 for exports, depending on the type of declaration and situation.

Data Elements are divided into eight groups -

  1. Message information (inc Procedure Codes and Additional Procedure Codes) - relates to the whole declaration or individual items on the declaration
  2. References - accompanying documents/certificates for items and authorisation
  3. Parties - who is involved in making the declaration within the supply chain
  4. Valuation information and Taxes - the value of the goods. VAT, duties due, means of payment
  5. Dates/Times/Periods/Places/Countries/Region - countries involved, goods arrival time, onward supply locations, shipped to/from
  6. Goods identification - codes to identify specific goods. Quantities, packages, weight, measurement, description
  7. Transport information - modes of transport between third country and final destination
  8. Other - statistical, tariff and guarantee related data. Unpaid customs duties, licences.

More information is available in the UK Government CDS guide.

Latest News

...

Complete guide to ELO (the new French customs requirement)

UPDATE 01/08/2025 - We have been informed by HMRC that French customs will be postponing the…

...

HMRC Update - ICS List of Stop Words

Please find below an updated list of stop words published by the EU.  As a reminder, a stop…

...

Introducing our new Business Development Manager, Ewa

We recently had a new addition to the CustomsLink team. Ewa has years of experience helping…

...

APHA Update - Lumpy Skin Disease outbreak in France

Following last week's announcement regarding the outbreak of Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD) in Italy, we…

...

APHA Update - Foot and Mouth Disease in Austria and Lumpy Skin Disease in Italy

Foot and Mouth Disease Update - Austria"Following an assessment, the United Kingdom has removed the…

...

DEFRA Update - Fruit and veg import checks scrapped ahead of UK-EU deal

In advance of a new SPS agreement with EU, fruit and veg imports will require no fees or border…