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INTERMODAL - Customs UK HMRC integration

Arynne Hargreaves avatar
Written by Arynne Hargreaves
Updated yesterday

Introduction

In transport and logistics, speed, accuracy, and traceability are non-negotiable. The Qargo integration delivers an end-to-end, connected flow that links your core systems—like booking and status tracking—into a single, auditable workspace. With the integration, data is automatically shared between systems, so you don’t have to re-enter information or chase updates. The result is improved compliance, faster operations, and clearer visibility for operations teams, dispatch, and freight partners.

Key benefits

  • Faster, more accurate shipment updates

  • Reduced manual data entry and fewer mistakes

  • End-to-end visibility across the supply chain

  • Flexible, scalable integration that adapts to changing routes, carriers, and systems

Terminology

Term

Definition

MRN Declaration

Movement Reference Number (MRN) declaration is a unique 18-character identifier, assigned by customs to a specific consignment, when an import, export or transit declaration is submitted.

GMR declaration

Goods Movement Reference (GMR) is a unique, mandatory digital code used when transporting goods between UK and the EU, as well as between GB and Northern Ireland.

Connector

The component that enables communication between systems, handling authentication, data mapping, and transport

Data Mapping

Aligning fields from one system to matching fields in another to ensure correct data transfer.

Authentication

Verifying identity to access resources (e.g., API keys, OAuth tokens).

Authorization

Granting permissions to perform actions or access data after authentication.

Logging & Audit Trail

Recorded events that provide visibility into the integration’s activity for troubleshooting and compliance.

Prerequisites (Qargo Admin only)

💬 Integration with UK HMRC services requires activation.

Please contact your Account Manager to request setup assistance.

  • Activate Customs Pre Notification feature flag

  • Global locations will include the Port ID in the profile

  • Tenant locations must be linked to the 'Global location' via the 'Qargo container terminal or intermodal location' field

  • Create & activate a new 'UK HMRC' integration (Qargo Admin Only)

  • The integration with UK HMRC must be authorised.

  • Use the 'Copy authentication URL' link

  • Paste the copied link in a browser and click 'Authorise API'

Once the integration is authenticated, it is ready for use.


Create workflow task (Super Admin / Admin user)

  • Create a standard Customs Task to send data and return status updates.

🧰 If using multiple customs integrations (Irish Revenue / UK HMRC) create a single standard Customs Task.

Enable the toggle to 'automatically determine integration' to send to the correct integration partner.


Practical Workflow (Step-by-Step)

The steps below walk through how to use the forwarding process

  1. Add intermodal booking to a trip that includes locations which are linked to UK HMRC locations

    Create a trip with a location that:

    1. has a border crossing

    2. a location linked to HMRC

  2. Import/export customs field should appear

  3. Once the CUSTOMS panel is available, users can manually add customs information

    1. Use the 'Add info/doc > Add customs information' to manually add details

  4. With the import location selected and the GMR/MRN numbers entered, the task should appear.

    1. Once triggered it will automatically forward to HMRC


Supported Status Updates

UK HMRC Status

Description

CHECKED_IN

GMR has been provided to carrier

OPEN

This is the initial status when a GMR is created but not yet finalised or submitted.

EMBARKED

This status shows that the vehicle has boarded the transport

PROCEED

This status grants permission for the vehicle to proceed through the border after checks. It's often a post-arrival status, indicating no holds or further inspections are needed.

COMPLETED

This status means the GMR's lifecycle is fully resolved.

Inbound: The goods have arrived in GB, disembarked, and passed any inbound customs controls (e.g., import declarations matched and cleared).

The GMR is closed, and no further action is needed unless audits occur later.

Outbound: The goods have departed GB and arrived at the EU/NI destination, with export/transit declarations finalised (e.g., via EU systems like NCTS for transits).

The GMR is archived, confirming successful export.

NOT_FINALISABLE

This is an error or warning status indicating the GMR cannot be finalised (i.e., marked ready for border crossing) due to issues like incomplete/invalid declarations, mismatches, or system errors.

Prevents progression until resolved.

INSPECTION

Inspection required at customs.

Will contain additional information on where the driver needs to be for inspection.

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