Case Study: Resolving HMRC Excise Issues

Our client was a global company specialising in the production of industrial processed fluids, which were subject to excise duties. A HMRC review had outlined several failings when it came to the process management of their duty-suspended excise goods.

Potential HMRC issues

When we started working with our client, we discovered a lack of knowledge across the business when it came to excise duties and the international movement of goods. We advised our client that their process flow needing pinning down, as well as identifying some staff training gaps. At that stage, staff only had a minimal awareness of how goods should be moved day to day. Overall, the business needed to build a relevant knowledge base and increase their understanding of duty and excise.

The company was at great risk of receiving HMRC fines and restrictions. However, they had no idea when it came to what they needed to know and who in the business was required to know such important information. 

Full review of process flow

First, we carried out a full review of the company’s process flow, which included advising on any necessary amendments that needed to be made in order to protect the company from HMRC levies. This required involvement from accounts, sales, procurement, customer service, despatch and the warehouse. As the process flow was revised, we also spent time spent reviewing any changes, where appropriate.

HMRC excise issue resolution

Next, we created and delivered multiple, bespoke training programmes for company staff in the UK and EU. As a result, the business now has a much greater understanding of international movements in terms of both import and export.

As the process flows have improved regulatory compliance, the company’s HMRC issues have been resolved. They are now in a position where they have extended their authorisation to include additional commodities.

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