What is a Cash Account?

A Cash Account is a payment method that allows traders or their agents to pay import duties, VAT and other charges due on customs declarations.

Instead of paying for each consignment individually traders deposit funds into the Cash Account and HMRC deducts the relevant amount automatically as declarations are processed. The account must be topped up with sufficient funds prior to each consignment otherwise customs charges can’t be settled and the goods may be held at the border until payment is made.