NCTS email channel for Transit submission will close at the end of the month

BY:

Gail Leeson
16 May 2022

SHARE:

HMRC have published an update for Transit users further confirming that the NCTS email channel for Transit submission will close at the end of the month.

The New Computer Transit System (NCTS) email channel is closing at 11.59 on 31st May 2022


The NCTS email channel will no longer accept any new declarations from the end of May 2022, and from this date all users of the email channel will have needed to migrate to the new XML API channel.


HMRC have advised that the new XML API channel will provide a more stable platform for submission of Transit Declarations, is more able to handle the increase in post EU Exit declaration volumes and is more data secure than the closing Legacy XML Channel.

 

Top Tips:


  • It is recommended that affected businesses transition as soon as possible to give sufficient time to ensure preparedness to implement use of the XML API channel into working day practices.
  • HMRC further recommend that checks should be made with software providers to define the impact that moving to the new channel will have on a business and what business action needs to be taken. 


Successful implementation of new procedures may take time.



Support to users where software is incompatible with the new XML API channel

There are other options available should your business software be incompatible with the new XML API channel. 

These alternatives are:

  • The HMRC online portal, which is free to use or
  • By using standard Import/Export procedures to move your goods.


The above will apply to all Great Britain (England, Wales and Scotland) and Northern Ireland movements.


HMRC have confirmed that they will be writing to all businesses still using the email channel, in an effort to support migration to the new XML API channel, and begin to prepare to make submissions using the new channel from 1st June, 2022.


Link to the newsletter below:


Transit Newsletter 10 May 2022.


OneCall™ Email assistance as and when required; A one-call solution for all your import, export and customs enquiries. Export help. Import help. Customs help.

Stay informed about customs and international trade matters by subscribing to our OneCall™ service. This comprehensive offering includes a dedicated email helpline for support, timely practical updates direct to your inbox (Did You Know?), monthly UK Customs & Trade Briefings and access to an interactive members' area with an exclusive community for our subscribers.

Subscribe Today ➝

International Trade Updates & Spotlight Newsletter

Subscribe to our free information emails covering international trade topics...

Subscribe to our newsletter ➝

MORE INDUSTRY INSIGHTS...

UK Businesses Encouraged to Take Simple Steps for Smoother Trade with the EU

by Lucille Roche • 9 March 2026
As the UK and EU progress toward a new Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) agreement, businesses across the agri-food, manufacturing, and wider supply chain landscape face a pivotal moment. Understanding what lies ahead and preparing early will be essential for businesses that want to remain competitive, compliant, and resilient.

Knowledge or Suspicion: A Case Study in Export Control Due Diligence

by Gail Leeson • 9 March 2026
This case study highlights how minor design changes and informal project updates can reveal significant export control risks when not fully examined through a structured due diligence process. A subtle design change and an off‑hand comment during a routine project meeting may seem insignificant until they expose hidden risks that could compromise export control compliance. 

Update to HMRC Guidance Page for the Get Customs Data for Import and Export Reports

by Gail Leeson • 9 March 2026
HMRC have updated the guidance page detailing the Get Customs Data for Import and Export reports, now available free of charge for download from the CDS (Customs Declaration Service).
Show More