Brexit has changed the rules of cross-bordertrade more than any other event in recent decades. One of the most importantconsequences is the requirement for Customs Representation Authorisation(CRA). For sellers in the UK, this procedure is often the first steptowards successful international shipping – but also a potential barrier if nothandled properly.
The United Kingdom has left the European Union – what has changed?
Since 1 January 2021, the UK has been treated by the EU as a “third country”. This means that every shipment crossing the borderis now subject to customs clearance. The return of border controls hashad a direct impact on UK businesses: longer delivery times, additionalpaperwork, and stricter compliance checks.
For online retailers, this translates intohigher operating costs and a pressing need to adjust logistics processes tokeep goods flowing smoothly. Documentation must now be precise, with completecustoms declarations, tariff codes, and product origin details. Without these,parcels risk being held up at the border.
Customs Representation Authorisation (CRA) –what exactly is it?
A Customs Representation Authorisation allows a third party (a logistics provider or customs agent) to act on behalfof a company during customs clearance. In practice, this means an intermediarysubmits customs declarations in your name.
There are two main forms of representation:
· Directrepresentation – the agent acts strictly in the name of theseller. All responsibility lies with the seller.
· Indirectrepresentation – the agent acts in their own name but onbehalf of the seller. Here, the agent shares responsibility, often requiredwhen the exporter does not have an EU-registered entity.
Both forms are widely used in e-commerce and areessential for compliance when moving goods between the UK and EU.
Why do e-commerce sellers need a CRA?
Without a CRA, customs procedures can become a bottle neck. With it, sellers gain:
· Professionalhandling of customs paperwork (reducing delays and penalties).
· Correctassignment of HS codes, origin data, and invoice details.
· Legalcompliance when selling on platforms such as Amazon, eBay, Otto or Zalando,which increasingly demand proof of customs authorisation.
To appoint a customs representative, a sellermust usually provide:
· Companydetails (full name, registered address, VAT/EORI number).
· Asigned authorisation letter or power of attorney.
· Supportingdocuments that prove trading status.
International shipping after Brexit –challenges for retailers
Many UK sellers discovered post-Brexit that even“basic” shipments now require a customs declaration and EORI number.Delays at borders are common if documentation is incomplete or if the courierused is not familiar with EU rules.
The four key steps every UK seller must follow:
1. Register for an EORI number (if notalready obtained).
2. Appoint a customs representative and grant themauthorisation.
3. Ensure all shipments are accompanied by completedeclarations (invoice, HS code, product origin).
4. Stay compliant with platform requirements – manymarketplaces verify whether sellers are prepared for cross-border trade.
This is not just about compliance – it directlyaffects customer satisfaction and seller ratings.
Shopreturns and international returns – howto stay compliant
While customs clearance is one part of theBrexit challenge, returns logistics is equally critical. Platforms suchas Amazon, eBay, Otto and Zalando require sellers to provide a localreturn address in the buyer’s country. Without it, you risk automaticrefunds, loss of goods, and account penalties.
This is where Shopreturns supportscross-border retailers. We provide:
· 📍Local return addresses in key EU markets and the UK.
· 🔄Full management of international returns, including parcel consolidationand reporting.
· ✅Compliance with marketplace policies – helping you meet requirements forAmazon, eBay, Otto and Zalando.
With Shopreturns you can continue to growinternationally, secure in the knowledge that your returns process isefficient, compliant, and customer-friendly.
