The section of the Customs Tariff which covers Wood is perhaps not as big as some others, but is still divided into sub-sections, based upon the following:

• a. the type of Wood is it e.g. Pine, Redwood, Oak, Plywood etc.
• b. is there bark on the Wood or has it been removed
• c. Has the wood been treated e.g. Rough Sawn, Sanded, etc.

What the above mentioned government departments will be looking for, is Wood which is perhaps on a list of endangered species, whether it is from sustainable forests, and free from foreign insects or disease.

There are ways in which you could try and classify them yourself, with one of the various online Tariffs. But if you only have a couple of different types of wood, then why not try a simpler method:

If you describe your goods to this UK Customs Classification Team, they will be able to advise the following, (so be sure to ask them for all of it):

• 1. the correct 10-digit classification code (please make a note of this number)
• 2. the rates of import duty which would apply (if applicable)
• 3. whether there are any preferential (reduced) rates of duty available
• 4. whether there any rules or restrictions on that item coming into the UK and the names and contact details of any Government departments which are interested in goods falling under that classification code.

This information is usually affected by where the goods are being shipped from, and the Country of origin/manufacture (if it is different to that Country).

A. Certain Wooden items are restricted, depending upon the type of wood, where it originated, and how it has been treated. As these are judged on an individual basis, you will have to ask UK Customs directly, and possibly, the UK Forestry Commission too.

HM Revenue and Customs
National Advice Line
(T) 0300 200 3700
For for International callers, please call: (T) 0044 208 929 0152

Forestry Commission – Plant Health
(T) +44 (0) 300 067 5155
plant.health@forestrycommission.gov.uk

Please remember:
If your goods are delayed when clearing Customs, there could be storage charges to pay so it is definitely better to find out this information BEFORE your goods arrive.

A. The main government department which controls the import and export of wood products, is the Forestry Commission.

Once you have your classification code, you will need to call them, to find out if there is any additional requirement, which they will need, when your goods arrive into the UK.

They will need to know things like:

• where have your goods come from
• what type of wood are they made from
• what is the product, and what will it be used for
• is the any bark on, or in with, your wood products
• have the wood been treated or fumigated, prior to shipping

More information can be found on to their website: www.forestry.gov.uk/timberandwood