There are two types of ports in the UK: inventory linked and non-inventory linked. Each type of port has its own processes and requirements, so it is important to know which type of port you are planning to use to avoid delays.
What are inventory-linked ports?
Inventory-linked ports in the UK operate under two main customs control models: Temporary Storage (TS) and the Mixed model (TS/GVMS). In the Mixed model, Roll-on-Roll-off (RoRo) terminals at a port can use the Goods Vehicle Movement Service (GVMS), while other terminals within the same port continue using the Temporary Storage model. This setup allows flexibility depending on the type of traffic and infrastructure available at each terminal.
Under the Temporary Storage model, goods entering the port are held in an approved temporary storage facility until a customs declaration is made and clearance is granted. The declaration is directly linked to the port’s inventory system, which communicates electronically with CDS (Customs Declaration Service). This ensures that all goods are traceable and cannot be released until customs has processed the declaration.
The GVMS model, by contrast, supports pre-lodged declarations. This means import declarations must be submitted before the goods arrive in the UK. GVMS integrates with CDS and the port’s inventory system to automatically match the declaration to the vehicle movement. Once customs clearance is granted, GVMS authorises the automatic release of the goods, covering both accompanied and unaccompanied shipments. This model is particularly suited to RoRo traffic, where speed and minimal delay at the border are essential.
For exports, GVMS handles both Arrived and Standard export processes. The model used depends on the port of departure and the type of goods. GVMS also facilitates the electronic departure message, confirming when goods have physically left the UK. This integrated approach improves efficiency and helps maintain accurate trade and customs records across multiple systems.
What are non-inventory-linked ports?
Non-inventory-linked ports operate exclusively through the Goods Vehicle Movement Service (GVMS), which connects customs declarations to vehicle movements rather than an inventory system. This setup is designed for ports that do not have a community or port inventory system, such as smaller RoRo or ferry ports.
For imports, traders must use the pre-lodgement model. This means the customs declaration must be submitted and accepted into CDS before the goods depart for the UK. Once accepted, the trader receives a Goods Movement Reference (GMR), which is used to link all relevant declarations to the vehicle or trailer. The driver presents the GMR at check-in, allowing GVMS to verify in real time that the goods are customs-cleared for movement. Upon arrival in the UK, GVMS automatically updates the customs system and, where necessary, triggers any required checks or releases.
For exports, GVMS can support either the Arrived or Standard export process, depending on how the port operates. In the Arrived process, the export declaration is considered arrived in CDS when the goods reach the port, allowing customs clearance before the goods physically depart. In the Standard process, the declaration is only marked as departed once GVMS confirms the vehicle has left the UK. In both cases, GVMS generates the departure message, confirming to customs that the goods have exited the country.
This model allows faster, paperless border processing and reduces delays at ports, provided traders pre-lodge declarations correctly and ensure all GMR details are accurate.
Watch our inventory & non-inventory ports video to learn more.
What is GVMS?
The Goods Vehicle Movement Service, or GVMS, is used for imports, exports, and transit with pre-lodged declarations. GVMS is connected to CDS and allows for the immediate release of goods with pre-lodged declarations as soon as they arrive in the UK.
GVMS was initially introduced in January 2021 for transit movements from the EU and to capture the details of vehicles and declarations for Northern Ireland ports that are not inventory linked. Beginning January 1, 2022, GVMS has been extended to movements between GB and the EU for both imports and exports via GB RoRo port locations. Visit the HMRC website for a list of ports using the Goods Vehicle Movement Service. For details on how to register for GVMS and what information will be needed to obtain the required Goods Movement Reference, please refer to our blog: What you need to know about Goods Vehicle Movement Service.
What is the difference between inventory-linked and GVMS?
Inventory-linked ports use an electronic inventory system to track goods from arrival until customs clearance. The customs declaration is linked to this system, which communicates with CDS. Goods are held in temporary storage until they are cleared by customs. This model is common at container and air freight ports where goods are unloaded and processed before release.
GVMS, or Goods Vehicle Movement Service, works differently. It is used mainly at non-inventory-linked Roll-on-Roll-off ports where goods move quickly without storage. Declarations must be pre-lodged before the goods travel, and all related declarations are linked to a Goods Movement Reference (GMR). When the vehicle arrives, GVMS matches the declaration to the movement and authorises release automatically. This model is designed for faster border processing.
Discover how GVMS works in CAS:
Check out out video if you want to discover how GVMS works in our customs automation software, CAS.
The Role of Community System Providers (CSPs)
In the UK, inventory-linked ports are connected to a Community System Provider, or CSP, and follow specific customs clearance procedures. CSPs provide network services to port communities and interface with CDS. There are five CSPs in the UK, each covering a different community of ports. To access a CSP’s systems, you need to subscribe to and pay for a badge, which gives you electronic access to the respective provider’s port system.
Inventory-linked ports in the UK
Inventory-linked ports in the UK are affiliated with one of five CSPs:
CNS (Compass)
CNS (Compass) manages both maritime container and Roll-on-Roll-off (RoRo) traffic. It is widely used at ports such as Portsmouth and Tilbury, as well as for express air courier operations at major airports including London Heathrow and Gatwick. The Compass system provides real-time tracking and links directly to CHIEF and CDS for customs clearance. It is designed to handle high volumes efficiently and is commonly used by freight forwarders and logistics providers managing mixed maritime and air operations.
MCP (Destin8)
MCP (Destin8) is one of the UK’s largest port community systems, used for both container and RoRo traffic at ports such as Tilbury, Hull, Immingham, Purfleet, Liverpool, and Felixstowe. Destin8 allows traders, shipping lines, and customs agents to submit declarations and manage cargo movements electronically. It offers integration with shipping schedules, manifests, and customs systems, supporting smooth coordination between port operators and customs authorities.
CCS-UK
CCS-UK is the main system for air cargo movements across most UK airports. It links airlines, ground handlers, freight agents, and customs, enabling rapid clearance and release of air freight. The system is known for supporting real-time data sharing between all parties, reducing delays in import and export handling.
DHL Aviation
DHL Aviation operates its own proprietary customs and logistics system for DHL shipments. It is used internally to manage import and export declarations, freight status updates, and coordination with customs authorities. This dedicated system ensures faster clearance for DHL’s express and cargo operations.
Descartes (Pentant)
Descartes (Pentant) handles RoRo traffic primarily at the Port of Dover, as well as a range of smaller UK ports. The system supports electronic manifest submissions, import and export declarations, and integration with GVMS. It is designed for rapid vehicle-based freight movements, allowing customs clearance to take place in sync with vehicle and trailer tracking.
C4T have created a CSP Connectivity at a Glance reference guide (up to date as of July 2023) which you can access here:
Using Inventory-Linked Ports
Temporary Storage
For goods entering through an inventory-linked port using the Temporary Storage model, the entire port handling process is linked to the initial import record created by the ship’s manifest, and declarations are associated to that item via a unique identifier. Once all goods are either cleared or offloaded, the container is free to proceed.
If you use an inventory-linked port, you will need to apply for your own badge from the CSP. It is important to note that different CSPs may be in operation at a port. This is the case at large ports, such as Tilbury, where there are several container terminals, bulk cargo terminals, and RoRo terminals. MCP manages some terminals and CNS others. Before you apply for a badge, it is recommended that you contact the CSP directly to confirm that both the port and terminal you want to apply for is indeed inventory linked and managed by that CSP.
For goods exported using the Temporary Storage model, the export declaration is pre-lodged (type EX-D). The goods are presented to customs and “arrived” at the port which triggers a risk assessment. Following Permission to Progress (P2P) the goods are released from the inventory and the CSP submits a Departure message to CDS.
Mixed Model (GVMS)
For the Mixed Model, where goods are imported using GVMS, declarations must be pre-lodged and the MRN (Movement Reference Number) for CDS must be provided with a valid GMR prior to departure from the EU. Goods are automatically released from inventory.
Using Non-Inventory Linked Ports
Non-inventory-linked ports are linked to GVMS and the process differs based on whether the goods are being imported (pre-lodged declarations) or exported (Arrived or Standard process may apply.) CHIEF declarations at non-inventory-linked ports also require a badge but it is not location or CSP specific. CAS customers can use C4T’s badge for RoRo shipments through non-inventory linked ports. CDS declarations via non-inventory linked locations can however be submitted directly and do not require a badge.
The ports of Newhaven and Sheerness operate the Standard export process, where a pre-lodged export declaration is required.
- A pre-lodged (Type EX-D) export declaration, containing the RRS01 AI Statement Code, will need to be submitted to/CDS before the goods leave the trader’s premises. No Exit Summary declaration is required when a combined export and Safety and Security declaration is made.
- The DUCR of the pre-lodged declaration must be entered in GVMS, together with details of the crossing (route) and vehicle, trailer, and container registration numbers, as appropriate.
- Upon release, the lorry can be driven to the port of exit, where documentary and/or physical checks are performed (if selected).
- The export declaration will get goods arrived status at the port and P2P will be granted.
- Updates to the status of the GMR are automatically communicated to CAS via GVMS.
Deciding which ports to use
The types and locations of ports you use in your customs flows is a strategic decision that influences costs, operational efficiency, and entry processing speed. C4T’s customs experts can advise you on the best approach when establishing or optimising your customs flows in CAS.
Contact us today to find out more.