Customs guarantee
A customs guarantee is a financial tool that helps construction companies manage their cash flow and operations efficiently while ensuring compliance with UK customs regulations. It is a form of financial assurance provided to HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) to cover any potential customs duties, VAT, or other taxes and charges that may be due on goods imported into the UK.
For construction projects, this might be relevant when importing construction materials, machinery, or equipment from abroad. The customs guarantee ensures that the importer (often the construction company or a related party) complies with customs regulations and that the UK government will receive any due payments even if the importer is unable to pay later. It allows goods to be released from customs without immediate payment of duties, taxes, or VAT, facilitating smoother and faster operations in construction projects.
The guarantee can be in the form of a bank guarantee, insurance policy, or cash deposit. It must be acceptable to HMRC and cover the potential liabilities. In construction, where timelines are tight and materials are often imported, having a customs guarantee can be crucial for avoiding delays that might otherwise occur while waiting for customs clearance.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
- 5 Essential Tips for the Import / Export Trade
- Advance payment bond.
- Bonds and guarantees.
- Brexit.
- Cash flow.
- Guarantee.
- Late payment.
- Parent company guarantee.
- Performance bonds.
- Retention of title.
- Vesting certificate.
[edit] External references
Featured articles and news
Key points for construction at a glance with industry reactions.
Functionality, visibility and sustainability
The simpler approach to specification.
Architects, architecture, buildings, and inspiration in film
The close ties between makers and the movies, with our long list of suggested viewing.
SELECT three-point plan for action issued to MSPs
Call for Scottish regulation, green skills and recognition of electrotechnical industry as part of a manifesto for Scottish Parliamentary elections.
UCEM becomes the University of the Built Environment
Major milestone in its 106-year history, follows recent merger with London School of Architecture (LSE).
Professional practical experience for Architects in training
The long process to transform the nature of education and professional practical experience in the Architecture profession following recent reports.
A people-first approach to retrofit
Moving away from the destructive paradigm of fabric-first.
International Electrician Day, 10 June 2025
Celebrating the role of electrical engineers from André-Marie Amperè, today and for the future.
New guide for clients launched at Houses of Parliament
'There has never been a more important time for clients to step up and ...ask the right questions'
The impact of recycled slate tiles
Innovation across the decades.
EPC changes for existing buildings
Changes and their context as the new RdSAP methodology comes into use from 15 June.
Skills England publishes Sector skills needs assessments
Priority areas relating to the built environment highlighted and described in brief.
BSRIA HVAC Market Watch - May 2025 Edition
Heat Pump Market Outlook: Policy, Performance & Refrigerant Trends for 2025–2028.
Committing to EDI in construction with CIOB
Built Environment professional bodies deepen commitment to EDI with two new signatories: CIAT and CICES.
Government Grenfell progress report at a glance
Line by line recomendation overview, with links to more details.
An engaging and lively review of his professional life.
Sustainable heating for listed buildings
A problem that needs to be approached intelligently.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award
Deadline for entries has been extended to Friday 27 June, so don't miss out!
CIAT at the London Festival of Architecture
Designing for Everyone: Breaking Barriers in Inclusive Architecture.
Mixed reactions to apprenticeship and skills reform 2025
A 'welcome shift' for some and a 'backwards step' for others.