Top 5 Customs Brokers in the UK to Assist with Customs Clearance for Your Business
- CNXtrans
- Jul 29
- 6 min read
In the ever-evolving landscape of international trade, customs clearance is one of the most critical—and often most complex—aspects of importing goods into the United Kingdom. For businesses involved in global commerce, a reliable customs broker can mean the difference between seamless delivery and costly delays. Whether you're importing electronics, textiles, food, or industrial equipment, partnering with an experienced UK customs broker is essential for regulatory compliance and efficient cargo handling.
This article outlines the Top 5 Customs Brokers in the UK known for their experience, reliability, and comprehensive service offerings. We will explore their key features, industries served, and value-added services, giving you the knowledge you need to make an informed decision. Additionally, we’ll show how using an integrated shipping solution like CNXtrans, which offers door-to-door shipping from China to the UK, can eliminate the need to engage a UK customs broker entirely.
Why Businesses Need a Customs Broker in the UK
Before diving into our top picks, it’s essential to understand the role customs brokers play in the UK import process.
A customs broker acts as an intermediary between your business and HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC). They are licensed professionals who help importers ensure their shipments comply with all UK regulations. Their main responsibilities include:
Completing customs declarations
Calculating and facilitating the payment of customs duties and VAT
Ensuring accurate commodity codes are used
Helping with EORI registration
Assisting with Import Control System (ICS) filings
Providing consultancy on trade agreements like the UK-EU TCA
The complexity of post-Brexit customs procedures and evolving trade rules has made customs brokers more essential than ever.
The Top 5 Customs Brokers in the UK
Below are five of the most reputable and reliable customs brokers in the UK, based on factors like experience, customer satisfaction, service offerings, and industry specialization.
1. Kuehne + Nagel UK
Website: https://uk.kuehne-nagel.com
Overview:
Kuehne + Nagel is one of the world’s leading logistics companies, with a significant presence in the UK. Their customs brokerage division offers one of the most comprehensive and technologically advanced services available.
Key Features:
Full customs clearance support for air, sea, and road freight
Automated customs declaration processes
Real-time shipment visibility via their KN Login platform
Support for complex cargo like pharmaceuticals and automotive parts
Direct links to HMRC systems for faster processing
Ideal For: Large enterprises and SMEs that require high-volume customs clearance and integration with global supply chains.
2. ChannelPorts Ltd
Website: https://www.channelports.co.uk
Overview:
ChannelPorts is a privately owned customs clearance specialist operating out of the Port of Dover. With over 45 years of experience, they are a go-to partner for road freight coming through the Short Straits.
Key Features:
24/7 clearance service at Dover and Folkestone
Specialists in post-Brexit EU–UK trade
Electronic pre-lodgement for both imports and exports
Tailored services for courier companies, hauliers, and freight forwarders
Ideal For: Road freight companies and SMEs importing from the EU through Dover or Folkestone.
3. Customs Support UK (formerly UK Customs Solutions)
Website: https://www.customssupport.co.uk
Overview:
Part of the larger Customs Support Group operating across Europe, this UK-based firm is known for fast, scalable customs solutions for businesses of all sizes.
Key Features:
Import and export declarations across all UK ports
Brexit-specific advisory and compliance support
AEO-certified (Authorised Economic Operator)
Seamless integration with ERP and TMS systems
Services available in multiple languages
Ideal For: Businesses looking for scalable, tech-driven customs services with multi-lingual support.
4. SGS United Kingdom Ltd – Customs Services
Website: https://www.sgs.co.uk
Overview:
SGS is a global leader in inspection, verification, and certification services. Their customs services in the UK are particularly valuable for importers of regulated and high-risk goods.
Key Features:
End-to-end customs clearance for all transport modes
Expertise in phytosanitary and sanitary inspections
Support for special procedures (inward/outward processing relief)
Customs warehousing consultancy
Post-entry audit and compliance
Ideal For: Importers of agricultural, food, chemicals, or regulated goods requiring special clearances.
5. John Good Logistics (Now part of Denholm Good Logistics)
Website: https://www.denholog.com
Overview:
Established in 1833, John Good Logistics has evolved into a trusted provider of end-to-end logistics solutions. Their customs brokerage services are widely respected across the UK’s logistics and manufacturing industries.
Key Features:
Direct customs clearance at all major UK ports and airports
24/7 customs support with a dedicated team
Specialized knowledge in groupage, LCL, and consolidation
Import/export documentation advisory
Freight forwarding and warehousing add-ons
Ideal For: Businesses needing flexible, well-supported customs clearance bundled with other logistics services.
Comparison Table: Top 5 UK Customs Brokers
Company | Modes Covered | 24/7 Service | Tech Integration | Industry Specialties |
Kuehne + Nagel | Air, Sea, Road | Yes | Advanced | Pharma, Automotive, Retail |
ChannelPorts | Road (Dover/Folk.) | Yes | Medium | EU–UK Road Freight |
Customs Support UK | All Modes | Yes | High | General Trade, EU–UK Trade |
SGS UK | All Modes | Yes | Medium | Food, Chemicals, High-Risk Goods |
Denholm Good Logistics | All Modes | Yes | Medium | Manufacturing, SMEs, Retail |
Do You Need to Hire a Customs Broker in the UK?
While customs brokers are invaluable for many importers, they may not always be necessary—especially if your shipping agent or freight forwarder offers a door-to-door service inclusive of customs clearance.
Scenarios Where You Likely Need a Broker:
Importing complex, high-risk, or restricted goods
No prior experience with UK import procedures
Need for advanced compliance advice
High shipment volumes requiring automation
Scenarios Where You Might NOT Need One:
Using a freight forwarder who offers customs-inclusive shipping
Shipping low-risk, non-restricted consumer goods
Handling small consignments (e.g. e-commerce)
Wanting a fully managed logistics solution
This brings us to a powerful alternative that removes the need to separately engage a customs broker..
Skip the Hassle of UK Customs Clearance with CNXtrans
If you’re importing goods from China to the UK, working with CNXtrans can save you time, reduce costs, and eliminate the complexities of customs clearance altogether.
What is CNXtrans?
CNXtrans is a leading China-based freight forwarder specializing in door-to-door air and sea freight shipping from China to the UK. Unlike many traditional shipping agents, CNXtrans handles every aspect of the shipment—from pickup in China to final delivery at your UK address.
Why Choose CNXtrans?
✅ Inclusive of UK Customs ClearanceNo need to hire a separate customs broker in the UK. CNXtrans clears your goods through UK customs on your behalf.
✅ No Customs Taxes or Duties to Pay on ArrivalAll customs taxes and duties are prepaid. Once the goods arrive in the UK, you owe nothing further.
✅ True Door-to-Door DeliveryCNXtrans delivers your shipment directly to your warehouse, office, or residential address in the UK.
✅ One Flat Quote, No Hidden ChargesAll logistics, clearance, and taxes are bundled into a single transparent quote.
✅ Flexible Shipping ModesWhether you need express air freight, economical sea freight, or LCL/FCL consolidation, CNXtrans can tailor a solution to suit your budget and timeline.
✅ Expertise in Handling UK ShipmentsCNXtrans regularly handles UK-bound shipments and is well-versed in the nuances of HMRC regulations and procedures.
Ideal for:
Amazon UK Sellers
E-commerce Stores
SMEs Importing in Bulk
UK-based Distributors
First-time Importers
How It Works:
Get the CNXtrans warehouse address in China
Contact CNXtrans to get their warehouse address in China here.
Have your goods sent to the CNXtrans Warehouse
Get your suppliers to have your goods sent to the CNXtrans warehouse once they ready
Inform CNXtrans of the domestic shipment numbers
Send the list of domestic shipment numbers to CNXtrans by emailing them at contact@cnxtrans.com
Consolidation and Shipping Processing
CNXtrans will consolidate and process your goods for international shipping to the UK and get back to you with your shipping options
Air or Sea Transport
Your goods can be shipped by air or sea depending on your needs. Make payment for shipping and CNXtrans will have your goods shipped out.
UK Customs Clearance Included
CNXtrans clears your goods through UK customs and pays all applicable duties.
Final Delivery to Your Address
The shipment is delivered directly to your UK location—no surprises, no extra steps.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right customs broker in the UK is crucial for ensuring timely, compliant, and cost-effective import operations. Whether you opt for a powerhouse like Kuehne + Nagel or a specialized player like ChannelPorts, a knowledgeable broker can streamline your customs process.
However, if you’re importing from China and want to bypass the need for a customs broker in the UK altogether, CNXtrans offers an unbeatable alternative. With full-service door-to-door air and sea freight shipping, inclusive of customs clearance, you’ll never have to deal with HMRC paperwork or pay duties upon arrival. Everything is handled for you—with peace of mind guaranteed.
Need a China-based Shipping Agent to help you consolidate and ship internationally from China?
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