Ask the Collective
The questions independent drinks founders ask most — answered. Distilled from years of community knowledge so the good stuff never disappears in the feed again.
What are the UK commodity codes and customs procedure codes needed for importing spirits from the EU post-Brexit?
Post-Brexit spirit imports from the EU require both a commodity code and a customs procedure code (CPC). Members found the process significantly more complex than pre-Brexit. **Resources and codes:** - **UK Trade Tariff** (gov.uk/trade-tariff) — the official government tool for looking up commodity codes for imports; includes options for different container sizes (spirits over 2L have specific codes) - **Customs Procedure Code 0700000** — mentioned as the likely CPC for spirit imports, though members noted this is the area where complexity lies ("box 37" references suggest detailed customs declaration requirements) **Caveats:** Members found the CPC lookup particularly challenging and non-intuitive. The Trade Tariff tool is the authoritative source, but members recommend consulting it carefully and potentially seeking specialist customs advice if the procedural code isn't immediately clear. One member flagged that even experienced importers found box 37 (part of the customs declaration form) confusing.
What is a GN-code and how is it used in the Netherlands?
A GN-code is your commodity code in the Netherlands. It's used for classification and customs purposes when trading goods. The community confirmed this is distinct from tax codes—it's specifically a product commodity classification system.
What CPC code should be used for customs clearance of underbond alcohol imports?
For alcohol in duty suspense being moved via EMCS to a bonded warehouse, members recommend using the CPC code **0700F06**. This code is used specifically for underbond alcohol imports processed through the Excise Movement and Control System (EMCS) with an MGN (Movement Guidance Note) to a bonded warehouse for duty suspension purposes.