Tariff
The UK has its own customs regulations and tariffs imposed on imported products. Most duties are ad valorem (%), based on the GATT Valuation Code (approximately CIF value (Incoterms 2000)). Common External Tariff (CET) is applicable to other countries, including Australia.
It is needed to obtain a written customs duty ruling from the customs service in the destination country. It is required to do this before shipping any goods to the UK. These rulings are called Binding Tariff Information (BTI).
Import restrictions
There is a limited number if items that require import licences that are valid for up to 12 months and are issued by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) for industrial products, or by the Rural Payments Agency for agricultural products. Moreover, all agricultural products are subject to quotas and import licences under the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP). Import of specified products without a quota license is prohibited. They are the following: cereals and rice; beef and veal; sugar and isoglucose; oils and fats; seeds; milk and milk products; wine; processed fruit and vegetables; sheepmeat; buffalo; goat meat.
All pre-packed goods and spirits (except perfumed or medicated cordials) must be packed in quantities specified by regulations. These quantities must be shown in metric measures, although imperial measures can also be displayed.
Products of animal origin for human consumption must come from an EU approved establishment. All shipments must note the official approved establishment number.
Plants, including those which are CITES listed and endangered, are prohibited. AQIS has information from the UK Ministry of Agriculture Fisheries and Food on the licence and certification requirements of most items subject to licensing. It is also required to have phytosanitary certificates to import plants, some cut flowers, rooted plants and plant material, trees and shrubs.
Product certification, labelling and packaging
Special certificates
Health certificate is required for livestock and other animals. In some cases, such as for dogs and cats (which are subject to quarantine on entry to the UK) and some other animals, certificates must be supported by permits issued by the Department of Environment.
Plants, seeds and plant products, including fruit, vegetables and cut flowers, may require import permits from the UK Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food as well as phytosanitary certificates issued by the approved body in the country of origin.
Customs sights all original certificates and requires photocopies for its records.
Packing list
Not obligatory but simplifies clearance if a variety of goods are packed in different cases.
Labelling
All directives of the European Council must be met as well as the local and national regulations.
Goods should be marked with their country of origin. And it is recommended that all Australian made products are marked with 'Made in Australia'.
Industrial policy and internal market directives for all products can alter in the EU marketplace. | 
