The following message has come from HMRC:

"We are experiencing an IT issue affecting some traders who are trying to submit import declarations through the Customs Declaration Service (CDS) and move their goods.

We are working to resolve the issue as quickly as possible. In the meantime, we are invoking a limited business continuity plan for CDS to ensure goods can continue to flow.

While the vast majority of declarations are processing normally (approximately 97%), if traders have pre-lodged their declaration and have been unable to generate a Movement Reference Number (MRN), they have permission to move goods without an MRN.

This means:

• At GVMS locations, hauliers are advised to create a 'declaration by conduct' GMR type for these goods. These can be validated by carriers as normal.
• At maritime Temporary Storage locations, carriers and shipping agents are authorised to use contingency manifest codes (e.g. 'C' or 'T2' status) for these goods if possible.
• Declarants are advised to contact the CDS helpdesk in the first instance if unable to use the above options, or if moving goods by air, using an External Temporary Storage Facility or other location.
• Controlled goods are instructed to remain at the port or attend an Inland Border Facility, although priority goods may be manually released by HMRC.

All goods that are permitted to move remain under customs control. Declarations must be submitted, arrived and cleared when systems become available.

Please note, Border Force may continue to place holds on consignments of interest or controlled goods."