Goods Movement Reference (GMR) - what is it and when is it required?
Goods Movement Reference (GMR) - what is it and when is it required?.
Since the introduction of the new border control system between the UK and the European Union, carriers and exporters have had to use the Goods Vehicle Movement Service (GVMS). A key element of this system is the Goods Movement Reference (GMR) - a unique number that combines all customs and security documents relating to a shipment into a single code.
Failure to have a correct GMR can cause delays at the border and even detention of goods.
When is a GMR needed?
A GMR number is required for most movements of goods across the UK border - both imports and exports. The obligation applies to:
- goods from the EU to the UK,
- transports from the UK to the EU,
- services between the UK and Northern Ireland,
- goods transported under the Common Transit Convention.
Exceptions include, but are not limited to, goods imported into the UK for personal use only or carried in hand luggage.
What data is required to generate a GMR?
In order to create a Goods Movement Reference number, you need to provide a data set depending on the direction of transport. Most commonly required are:
- vehicle registration number (for transport with driver),
- trailer or container number (for transport without driver),
- Movement Reference Number (MRN) import/export declaration,
- ATA or TIR document numbersif used,
- EORI of the transporter or exporter,
- Transit Accompanying Document (TAD) in the case of transit.
For certain shipments (e.g. postal or verbally declared shipments), a GMR can be generated without full customs data, but the criteria described in the regulations must always be met.
Why is the GMR so important?
- Combines customs and security documents into a single code - facilitates clearance.
- Automates notification of arrival and presentation of goods in the GVMS.
- Speeds up border clearance, minimising the risk of delays.
- Mandatory for carriers - Failure to do so could mean a financial penalty and the stopping of transport.
How to obtain a GMR?
- Register with Goods Vehicle Movement Service (GVMS) by Government Gateway.
- Collect all required data and documents (MRN, registration numbers, ATA/TIR, EORI, etc.).
- Generate a GMR number online.
- Ensure that the driver has access to the code (printout, email, app).
Summary
Goods Movement Reference (GMR) is an essential element for trade between the UK, the EU and Northern Ireland. It makes the border clearance process faster and more transparent, but at the same time the absence of a GMR means there is a risk of serious delays.
If you want to find out how to prepare your GMR efficiently and avoid mistakes during clearance, contact the experts J.Dauman Logistics:
www.jdaumanlogistics.pl
