What is an Export Accompanying Document (EAD)?

An Export Accompanying Document (EAD) is an official customs document that proves goods have been cleared for export from the European Union (EU) or United Kingdom (UK) to countries outside these territories. It is generated electronically once an export declaration has been accepted by the customs authority, and it must physically accompany the goods to the customs office of exit.

Every EAD includes a Movement Reference Number (MRN) and a unique barcode that enables customs officers to track and confirm that the goods have officially left the customs territory. Without an EAD, your export may be delayed or refused at the border.

When is an EAD required?

An EAD is typically required when:

• Goods are exported from the EU to non-EU destinations, or from the UK to non-UK destinations.
• The value exceeds €1,000 (or £873), or the total weight exceeds 1,000 kg.
• You file a full export declaration (not a simplified or low-value shipment).

For example, a UK exporter shipping goods to the USA or an EU trader exporting to Switzerland would both need an EAD. It ensures customs authorities can verify that the goods left the territory and that the exporter can claim zero-rated VAT or prove export compliance.

What information does the EAD contain?

An EAD includes:

• Exporter and consignee details
• Commodity codes (HS codes) and goods description
• Quantity, weight, and value
• Departure office and customs office of exit
• MRN and barcode for scanning at departure

Once the goods are presented at the office of exit and scanned out, customs electronically update the record to confirm the export.

How Efret can help with preparing an EAD on your behalf

At Efret, we simplify the export process by managing all customs documentation for you - including the EAD. Our customs clearance specialists:

• Prepare and submit your export declaration through the correct EU or UK customs system.
• Generate and issue your EAD with valid MRN and barcode.
• Ensure your transport documents and carrier references match customs data.
• Monitor the departure and exit confirmation to provide proof of export.

With Efret, you gain peace of mind knowing your export documentation is accurate, compliant, and accepted by customs first time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an EAD for exports within the EU?
No - the EAD applies only to goods leaving the EU or UK customs territories.

Who issues the EAD?
The national customs authority automatically generates it once your export declaration is accepted.

Can Efret handle both EU and UK exports?
Yes - Efret manages EADs and related export procedures across EU member states and the UK.

Get Expert Help with Your Export Documentation
Avoid delays and customs issues. Contact Efret to ensure your Export Accompanying Document is complete and compliant from start to finish.

We have a dedicated in-house Customs Clearance Agent & Brokerage team, ensuring hassle-free fast transit of your goods between the UK & EU. As a direct representative, we can provide access to our guarantees and authorisations including Transit Guarantee, Deferment Account, AEO and Authorised Consignor. We have a robust network of custom agents throughout Europe enabling us to offer complete door-to-door Brokerage as well as our integrated transport and logistic solutions.

Our services include:

• UK import customs clearance
• UK export customs clearance
• T1 transit documents, now known as Transit Accompanying Documents (TAD)
• Import duty rates
• Preferences and licencing
• Carnet / OPR and IPR
• Export Accompanying Document (EAD)
• Safety & Security Declaration (SSD)
• Entry Summary Declaration (ENS)
• Obligatory Logistics Envelope (ELO)

Get in touch with our specialist customs team for advice, a quote or to find out more:

By phone: +44 (0) 1202 132 779

Or send us a secure online message here:

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