Exporting cargo from the UK to Africa needs the right UK-side paperwork: an EORI number, a commercial invoice, a packing list and correct HS codes. Rolats is HMRC Customs Authorised and EORI registered, so we prepare and file the UK export documentation for you — and the destination paperwork too.
What UK export documents do you need?
For a typical UK-to-Africa shipment:
- EORI number — required to export from the UK (we hold ours; you don't need your own for personal shipments)
- Commercial invoice — describes the goods, value and parties
- Packing list — itemises what's in each box, barrel or container
- HS codes — the tariff classification that determines destination duty
- Export declaration — filed to HMRC
What is an EORI number?
An EORI (Economic Operators Registration and Identification) number is the ID HMRC uses to track exports. Businesses exporting commercially need their own; for personal and diaspora shipments, Rolats exports under our own EORI as the freight forwarder, so you don't have to register.
Why HS codes matter
The HS (Harmonised System) code classifies your goods for customs at both ends. The right code means the destination country assesses the correct duty and your cargo isn't held for re-classification. We assign accurate HS codes as part of preparing your shipment.
How Rolats handles it
As an HMRC Customs Authorised, EORI-registered forwarder, we prepare the commercial invoice and packing list, assign HS codes, file the UK export declaration, and prepare the destination paperwork (Form M/SONCAP, CTN, ECTN, FERI, IDF as required). You give us the item list and values; we do the documentation.