HMRC has commended VARTAN Consultancy for its due diligence after raising concerns about inaccurate customs guidance being shared by some fast parcel carriers. These carriers were incorrectly advising customers that consignments valued under £1,000 automatically qualify for preferential origin treatment under Free Trade Agreements (FTAs).
In response, HMRC clarified that:
- The small consignment threshold (~£145) does not exempt traders from the need to prove origin under FTAs.
- Providing misleading advice on this matter constitutes a breach of UK customs legislation.
HMRC recognised VARTAN’s attention to detail, stating:
“It is clear that attention to detail and due diligence are being carried out by VARTAN Consultancy.”
Miles Vartan, Managing Director of VARTAN Consultancy, commented:
“We take compliance seriously — not just for our clients, but for the integrity of the wider trade community. When incorrect guidance is being circulated, it puts honest businesses at risk. We’re pleased that HMRC acknowledged our efforts, and we’ll continue to raise standards wherever we can.”
VARTAN continues to support clients with accurate, compliant customs solutions and encourages traders to question any advice that appears to shortcut legal requirements.
For more information, please contact us
Written by Corinne Robinson
Corinne brings the team together and is the main point of contact for clients and colleagues alike.
With a passion for customer service and over thirty years experience in managing businesses and streamlining processes in a variety of industries, Corinne knows what good service looks like and she takes pride in putting processes in place to ensure the team provides excellent customer service whilst managing customer expectations.