Unlock the full potential of the UK’s Freeport scheme while staying fully HMRC compliant.
What Are Freeports?
Freeports are special zones where normal tax and customs rules are simplified to encourage trade, innovation, and investment. Businesses operating within Freeports can benefit from:
- Customs Duty Suspension – pay no duty on goods unless they enter the UK market.
- Duty Inversion – pay the lower duty rate if the finished product attracts less duty than the raw materials.
- Tax Incentives – including relief on business rates, stamp duty, and enhanced capital allowances.
- Simplified Customs Processes – reduced paperwork and faster clearances.
Freeports offer a valuable opportunity for importers, manufacturers, and logistics providers — but taking advantage of these benefits requires robust compliance processes.
Why Compliance Matters in Freeports
Freeports Simplify Trade – But Compliance Remains Essential
While Freeports are designed to reduce red tape, businesses still need to:
- Maintain accurate customs records
- Use the correct authorisations and procedures
- Comply with HMRC audits and checks
Failure to do so can result in penalties, supply chain delays, or loss of Freeport benefits.
With decades of combined experience, our team ensures your Freeport operations stay smooth, compliant, and commercially optimised.
If you’re planning to use a UK Freeport, we can help you design a compliance strategy from day one. Get in touch to discuss how we can help you and your business.
How VARTAN Can Help
Ready to explore the benefits of freeports?
We support businesses to operate in Freeports with complete confidence. Our services include:
- Customs Compliance MOTs – reviewing your processes to meet HMRC requirements
- Authorisation Support – including AEO and other approvals to operate in Freeports
- Customs Procedure Design – ensuring efficient goods flows in and out of the Freeport
- Training & Guidance – giving your team the skills to manage Freeport operations
- Ongoing Consultancy – acting as your partner to liaise with HMRC and avoid risk
With decades of combined experience, our team ensures your Freeport operations stay smooth, compliant, and commercially optimised.
If you’re planning to use a UK Freeport, we can help you design a compliance strategy from day one. Get in touch to discuss how we can help you and your business.
Frequently Asked Questions – Freeports
Q1: What are UK Freeports?
UK Freeports are special economic zones where normal tax and customs rules are simplified. Businesses can benefit from duty suspension, tax reliefs, and streamlined import/export processes.
Q2: Do Freeports remove the need for customs compliance?
No. Compliance still counts in Freeports — you must keep accurate records, follow HMRC-approved procedures, and maintain authorisations to continue enjoying Freeport benefits.
Q3: What HMRC authorisations are required for Freeports?
Common authorisations include Customs Warehousing, Inward Processing, and AEO (Authorised Economic Operator). VARTAN can help you apply for and maintain these.
Q4: What happens if I make a mistake in my Freeport customs records?
Errors can lead to penalties, duty liabilities, or loss of Freeport benefits. A compliance review (like our Customs MOT) helps identify and fix issues before HMRC audits.
Q5: Can VARTAN provide training for my team?
Yes. We offer tailored training on Freeport operations, record-keeping, and customs procedures — so your team stays confident and compliant.