Frequently asked  

Green Leaves Logistics Birmingham FAQs

Moving your products around the world can be a daunting and very complex task. Green Leaves Logistics can take the load off your shoulders.

We’ve put together this section to answer some of the questions to help you sending us the right information to move your freight.

Getting started

What will I need to start exporting and importing my goods?

Register your business

We provide B2B (business-to-business) services and solutions only, so it’s important that you are first registered as a business.

For information on how to register visit the gov.uk website.

Get an EORI number

You will need an EORI number (Economic Operators Registration and Identification number) to move goods into or out of the United Kingdom.

United Kingdom EORI numbers begin with the letters ‘GB’ and followed by a 12-digit number, usually the trader’s VAT number.

We will need your EORI number to make customs declarations on your behalf.

To apply for your EORI number visit the gov.uk website.

Deferment account

If you are planning to regularly import into the United Kingdom, a deferment account with HMRC is useful.

With a HMRC deferment account, you can defer payment of import duty and VAT and make one payment a month, instead of paying for individual consignments.

When your deferment account has been approved by HMRC you will receive a deferment approval number.

If you would like your import consignments applied to a deferment account, then we will need your deferment approval number.

To apply for a deferment account visit the gov.uk website.

Meet the basic requirements

As basic requirement, you will need to:

  • Establish your incoterms.
  • Check the rules for importing/exporting your goods (e.g. licenses).
  • Classify your goods.
  • Produce a commercial invoice.
  • Make sure your goods are suitably packed and secure for the journey.

Additional requirements may apply but we will happily guide you in the right direction.

    Can you arrange shipments to & from countries outside of the UK?

    Yes! We have a network of partners globally and are well placed to manage shipments that don’t physically move through the UK.

    What information do I need to provide to get a quote from you?

    In the first instance, we will need to know the origin and destination of your shipment, along with the size of the shipment (Number of Pieces, Weight and Dimensions). We will also need to know what the goods are and consider whether they are hazardous for transport. 

    You can request a quote using our online tool, or just give us a call!

    What will I need to start using Green Leaves Logistics as my green logistics provider?

    Register your business

    We provide B2B (business to business) solutions only, so it’s important that you are first registered as a business.

    For information on how to register visit the gov.uk website.

    Get an EORI number

    You will need an EORI number (Economic Operators Registration and Identification number) to move goods into or out of the United Kingdom.

    United Kingdom EORI numbers begin with the letters ‘GB’ and followed by a 12-digit number, usually the trader’s VAT number.

    We will need your EORI number to make customs declarations on your behalf.

    To apply for your EORI number, visit the gov.uk website.

    Account application

    Before we can begin handling your imports and exports, you will need to complete our customer account application form.

    On receipt of your completed and signed application, our accounts team will confirm your payment terms and the opening of your account.

    To obtain your account application form please contact your Green Leaves representative or email hello@greenleaveslogistics.com

    Direct Representation

    In order make customs declarations on your behalf and in your name, we are required to obtain your formal written authorisation.

    You will need to complete our Direct Representation form to give us formal written authorisation to act as your customs intermediary and direct representative.

    A copy of the Direct Representation form is included in the customer account application form.

    To request a copy please contact your Green Leaves representative or email hello@greenleaveslogistics.com

    How do I know what method of shipment is best for me?

    The best method of transport is dependent upon the time frames and locations involved.  If you have a small shipment that is urgently required, airfreight would be the best method.  If your goods have a longer lead time, moving by seafreight would be more cost-effective. In all cases, we will take the time to understand your needs and tailor the solution accordingly.

    What is the difference between FCL & LCL?

    FCL (Full Container Load) means that you have full use of the container from start to finish, goods are loaded into the container which is then sealed and not opened again until it reaches its final destination.   

    LCL (Less than container Load) means that your goods share space in a container with other goods going to the same destination.  Goods would be collected and loaded into the container at a consolidation centre.  Once the container arrives at the destination port, it is taken to a warehouse for the goods to be cleared and unloaded ready for onward delivery.  This is cost-effective for smaller consignments but can take longer due to the additional handling at both ports.

    Will I need cargo insurance?

    Due to the many inherent dangers in shipping, things sometimes go wrong.

    Freight forwarders and carriers have only limited liability, and in the event of a claim, you may find that the maximum compensation under limited liability, does not cover your loss. Therefore, many exporters and importers take our insurance for their goods.

    Important

    We advise you to arrange transport insurance for your goods, particularly where the value of your goods is higher than the maximum amount the forwarder or carrier is liable for.

    Cover explained

    Insurance can be arranged by us (the forwarder), the exporter or the importer.

    The benefits of insurance commonly include:

    • Cover for loss or damage in transit by sea, air, road and rail.
    • Cover for loss or damage at unloading/loading warehouse.

    Policies can also be tailored to meet your requirements.

    The insurance premium is subject to numerous factors, including:

    • Value and type of goods
    • Destination
    • Mode of transport

    In the event of an insurance claim, compensation will be based on the commercial invoice value (or market value, in the absence of the commercial invoice).

    Insure with us

    We can provide a quote for transport insurance on your request and, where instructed by you in writing, we can arrange insurance and supply your insurance certificate.

    To provide you with a quote, we will need the following information:

    • Value and type of goods
    • Destination
    • Mode of transport

    For a quote please contact us at hello@greenleaveslogistics.com

    Customs

    Do I need to be registered to Import or Export?

    Yes! All businesses Importing or Exporting need an EORI number. We can talk you through the application process with HMRC. It needs to be in place before shipment as it is part of the customs process.

    What Documentation will I need?

    For International shipments, a Commercial Invoice & Packing List for the goods will be required. When dealing with some countries, you may also need additional documents such as a Certificate of Origin.   We will be able to assist with identifying these documents and arranging them for you.

    How long does it take for goods to clear through customs?

    Customs processes when importing into the UK are more complex than exports in most cases.  The timeframe for clearance cannot be guaranteed due to the number of agencies involved, but at Green Leaves Logistics we will work with you to have everything in place prior to shipment arrival and proactively manage your shipment to minimise delivery lead times.

    How much Duty & VAT will I have to pay?

    The duty rating is dependent upon the Tariff Code applied to the consignment.  We can assist with tariff code classification and provide an estimate of the Duty & VAT applicable. The Duty is calculated on the value of goods and the transport charges. VAT  (20%) is charged on the value of the goods, transport charges and the Duty.

    Contact us

    Still not sure?

    Don’t worry! Get in touch and we’ll try to answer to your question.

    Contact us
    Karen French advice

    Green Leaves Logistics Ltd
    95 Spencer Street
    Birmingham
    West Mildands B18 6DA
    United Kingdom

    0121 361 0333
    International: +44 121 361 0333

    hello@greenleaveslogistics.com

    Green Leaves Logistics Ltd is a company registered in England and Wales under number 12857778. VAT registration number GB 363 7834 68.

    Green Leaves Logistics Ltd is a member of the British International Freight Association (BIFA).

    All business is transacted in accordance with the current BIFA Standard Trading Conditions, copy available here.

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