Deep-sea containers
For a standard container import, start with the final bill of lading, container number, vessel, commercial invoice and packing list.
UK port coverage
London Gateway customs clearance
Import and export customs clearance for containers moving through DP World London Gateway. Send us the shipment details early so we can check the declaration requirements before collection is planned.
Call our customs team07946 896896Tell us the goods, arrival port and expected date.
THAMES · CONTAINERS
Port-focused support
Prepared before arrival. Coordinated through release.
At London Gateway, the bill of lading, container number, vessel details and inventory reference need to identify the same movement as the customs declaration. We can review those details with the commercial documents, prepare the customs side and explain the response. We do not control shipping-line or terminal release.
Freight Customs Clearance Ltd supports importers, exporters, freight forwarders and transport operators with document checks, customs-clearance coordination and practical release updates.
How this port works
Customs release and terminal collection are separate steps.
London Gateway operates container and road/rail logistics services. The declaration must match the shipment recorded for the port; customs clearance alone is not a collection booking.
DP World: Vehicle Booking SystemBefore you book collection
- Confirm the final bill of lading, container number, vessel and arrival details with the carrier.
- Provide the invoice, packing list, importer GB EORI and any licences or origin evidence needed for the goods.
- Check the customs response and any shipping-line or terminal hold before instructing collection.
- Your registered haulier books the required vehicle slot with the terminal when road collection is ready.
DP World's Vehicle Booking System is a terminal/haulier process. Freight Customs Clearance Ltd does not book those slots or remove carrier and terminal holds.
A useful first enquiry
Get a London Gateway clearance quote.
Tell us what is arriving and when. We can scope the customs work before you commit to collection, and explain which carrier, terminal, inspection, duty or tax costs need separate confirmation.
What to send us
- Import or export, goods description, number of containers and goods lines.
- Bill of lading, vessel and arrival date, container numbers, and inventory reference or UCN if issued.
- Trader EORI, commercial invoice, packing list, and any licences or origin evidence relevant to the goods.
A customs response does not itself book collection or remove terminal holds. Your appointed haulier uses DP World's Vehicle Booking System. DP World terminal tools ↗
Movement profile
Planning around London Gateway cargo.
Port capability does not replace customs preparation. The declaration file, terminal identifiers and physical handover still need to describe the same movement.
Temperature-sensitive goods
Tell us about any product-specific controls, permits or certificates early; the customs file is only one part of a time-sensitive collection.
Specialist cargo
Oversized, automotive or other specialist goods may need a more detailed description, classification and supporting evidence before a declaration can be finalised.
- 01
Match the final bill of lading and container list to the vessel and expected arrival.
- 02
Supply commercial invoice, packing list, goods description, value, weight and quantity.
- 03
Confirm the importer GB EORI, commodity classification, customs procedure and any required licences.
- 04
Give us the inventory reference or UCN when the shipping line or port provides it.
- 05
Treat customs release, carrier release, terminal holds and haulier booking as separate checks.
Clearance workflow
Pre-arrival review
Commercial and transport documents checked before the vessel or container reaches port.
Declaration support
Import or export clearance information prepared and coordinated for the shipment.
Customs response
Questions, holds and additional requirements translated into clear next actions.
Release handover
Release status coordinated with the relevant freight and transport parties.
24/7Operational availability
365Days each year
10+Years’ team experience
London Gateway FAQs
Questions before the cargo moves.
Answers relate to our clearance-preparation service and do not represent the port or terminal operator.
For the declaration steps, see our UK customs clearance service and import clearance guide.
Can you prepare a declaration before the vessel arrives?+
Yes, where the shipment information and documents are available. We will identify any missing details before the declaration is finalised.
Does a customs-cleared status mean the container can leave London Gateway?+
Not by itself. The shipping line, terminal and haulier may have their own release or booking requirements.
Do I need a UCN or inventory reference?+
For an inventory-linked movement, the correct port reference is important. Ask the carrier or shipping line for the final reference and send it to us when issued.
Do you work for DP World London Gateway?+
No. We are an independent customs-clearance business, not the port operator.
Always on
Clearance support, 24/7, 365 days.
Call to discuss your shipment, or email the details and available documents for review.