New HMRC Authorisation Schemes Targeting Foreign Postal Operators — What This Means for E-Commerce Imports 

In 2025, HMRC has taken a significant step to strengthen the UK’s border controls and improve the accuracy of customs data for postal shipments. A new authorisation regime now applies to certain foreign postal operators, requiring them to hold formal HMRC authorisation if they wish to continue using simplified CN22/CN23 declaration routes for goods exported from Great Britain. 

While the scheme directly targets outbound postal flows, it will have important knock-on effects for e-commerce parcel imports — especially where inbound logistics depend on foreign postal networks that also handle UK-bound traffic. 

For online sellers, marketplaces, and cross-border logistics providers, the message is clear: partner only with authorised operators and ensure your customs declarations are complete, accurate, and backed by the required electronic data. This will be key to avoiding delays, penalties, or returned shipments. 

The Key Changes Driving Compliance Pressure 

1. Formal HMRC Authorisation for Operators 
   After a short transition period, foreign postal operators serving the UK must apply for and maintain authorisation to use CN22/CN23-based processes. 
2. Mandatory Data Quality Standards 
   Operators must provide complete, accurate electronic customs data to match CN22/CN23 forms, including full descriptions, HS codes, and correct valuation. 
3. Focus on Risk Management 
   HMRC’s authorisation process aims to reduce fraudulent or incomplete declarations, with increased visibility into parcel flows. 
4. Impact on Platforms & Sellers 
   Marketplaces, consolidators, and e-commerce sellers relying on postal networks must ensure their logistics partners meet the new standard — or risk service interruptions. 
5. Transition Period in Force 
   Regulations took effect 25 June 2025. While there is a window for operators to obtain authorisation, enforcement will follow. 

What This Means for E-Commerce Businesses 

If you ship goods to or from the UK using foreign postal services, you’ll need to: 

1. Verify Authorisation Status 
   Confirm your postal operator is HMRC-authorised before the transition ends. 
2. Audit Your Declarations 
   Ensure CN22/CN23 forms are accurately completed with correct product descriptions, HS codes, and values. 
3. Integrate Electronic Data 
   Align paper forms with electronic pre-advice to meet HMRC’s data requirements. 
4. Plan for Disruption Mitigation 
   Have alternative routing or courier options ready in case an operator loses or fails to gain authorisation. 

 

How NG Terminal Supports Compliance 

At NG Terminal, we help e-commerce businesses and postal partners adapt to these changes by offering: 

✅ CN22/CN23 Data Validation 
We check declarations for accuracy, HS code alignment, and compliance with HMRC requirements before parcels are dispatched. 

✅ Authorisation Partner Vetting 
We guide you in verifying your postal and logistics partners’ HMRC authorisation status. 

✅ Seamless Border Management 
Our customs brokerage team handles exceptions, re-declarations, and duty/VAT arrangements for smoother clearance. 

✅ ETSF & Bonded Warehouse Services 
Located near Heathrow, we provide bonded storage and clearance solutions for shipments requiring compliant handling. 

✅ MyNGT Platform 
Gain real-time visibility into your customs status, shipment movements, and partner compliance. 

 

What You Should Do Now 

1. Check Your Postal Operators — Verify HMRC authorisation status. 
2. Review Your Customs Data Flow — Ensure CN22/CN23 data is consistent, accurate, and matched electronically. 
3. Engage With NGT — Let our team help you prepare for a smooth transition and avoid clearance delays. 

Stay Ahead of the Curve 
With HMRC’s new authorisation schemes reshaping the postal landscape, proactive compliance is the best way to keep your parcels moving and your customers satisfied. 

📩 Contact us at ngtbd@ng-terminal.com to discuss how we can support your customs and postal compliance strategy. 

📌 Follow NG Terminal for further updates on HMRC regulations, bonded warehousing, and cross-border logistics solutions. 

🔗 Read more on HMRC’s consultation and regulations: HMRC – Customs treatment of post & parcel exports