Everything You Need to Know About GMR in Transport to/from the United Kingdom

In the era of international transport, following Brexit, customs regulations between the European Union and the United Kingdom have become more complicated, forcing carriers to adapt to the new rules. One of the key requirements is GMR – Goods Movement Reference, which is a goods reference number. Since January 2022, every transport of goods between the European Union and the United Kingdom, as well as between the EU and GB to Northern Ireland, requires the generation of a GMR number, which is necessary for customs clearance and border crossing. In this article, we will explain what GMR is, how to obtain it, why it is essential, and how Visline, a specialist in transport to and from the United Kingdom, facilitates this process.

What is GMR?

Goods Movement Reference (GMR) is a unique number that identifies the goods being transported. This system was introduced in response to regulatory changes that occurred after Brexit, when the United Kingdom left the European Union. GMR is mandatory for the transport of goods between these two areas, and its purpose is to monitor goods during transport.

The GMR number is generated through the GVMS (Goods Vehicle Movement Service) system, which allows carriers and freight forwarders to obtain the reference number based on customs documents that the carrier receives after loading. It is a requirement that every driver must meet in order for their goods to cross the border between the EU and the United Kingdom, as well as from the EU to Northern Ireland.

How to Generate a GMR Number?

To obtain a GMR number, the carrier or freight forwarder must use the GVMS system, which is available online. Here are the steps to follow in order to correctly generate the number:

1. Registration in the GVMS System – The carrier or freight forwarder must register in the system to gain access to generating GMR numbers. The system is available on the UK government website.
2. Entering Transport Information:
   • Ferry route details,
   • Carrier information,
   • Vehicle registration number (when transport is with a driver),
   • Trailer/container number (when transport is without a driver),
   • Reference number of the accompanying document, such as TAD or TSAD,
   • Reference numbers for transport under ATA and TIR carnets,
   • Printout of the TAD document or ATA or TIR carnet,
   • Import declaration,
   • EORI number (Economic Operators Registration and Identification).
3. Generating the GMR Number – After entering the information, the system will generate a unique GMR number that will be assigned to the shipment.
4. Providing the GMR Number to the Driver – The GMR number must be provided to the driver, who will need to present this number to customs officers during customs clearance at the port or border.

Where is the GMR Number Required?

The GMR number is required for any transport of goods between the European Union and the United Kingdom. This includes the transport of goods both from the EU to the UK and from the UK to the EU. A GMR must also be generated for transport from the European Union and the United Kingdom to Northern Ireland. However, unlike GB, it is no longer required for transport from Northern Ireland.

Who is required to have a GMR number?

The requirement to have a GMR number applies to every carrier or freight forwarder organizing the transport of goods between the European Union and the United Kingdom. Specifically, it includes:

• Truck drivers transporting goods on international routes between the EU and the United Kingdom, as well as from the EU to Northern Ireland.
• Transport companies and freight forwarders organizing the transport of goods on these routes.
• Carriers involved in the transport of containers, pallets, or less-than-truckload (LTL) shipments.

The GMR number is not required for the transport of items for personal use only or for the transport of commercial goods in luggage.

What goods require a GMR number?

The GMR number is required for all goods transported between the European Union and the United Kingdom, even if the vehicle is not carrying any cargo.

We specialize in transport to/from the United Kingdom and ferry crossings throughout Europe

Visline is a transport company that has been specializing in the transport of goods to/from the United Kingdom for years, providing comprehensive transport services. With extensive industry experience, Visline effectively manages customs documentation and the entire transport procedure, ensuring that the customs clearance, transport, and ferry crossings are quick and hassle-free. The company handles a wide range of cargo, including hazardous, industrial, food, and other goods requiring a specialized approach.

Visline is a partner you can rely on – from preparing documentation, obtaining the GMR number, to delivering the goods on time. Thanks to the GVMS system and strict adherence to customs procedures, we ensure that your cargo reaches its destination quickly and without unnecessary delays.

If you need assistance with transport to the United Kingdom, contact us.