Accurate export documentation is essential for ensuring smooth international trade. As the leading provider of Export & Import Documentation services in the North of England, Greater Manchester Chamber is here to support your export needs. Our Export Documentation Services are available at our Manchester office on Deansgate (Elliot House) and at the World Freight Terminal at Manchester Airport. While we handle a wide range of export documents, this guide focuses on the two most popular:
- UK Certificates of Origin (COO)
- UK EUR1 Movement Certificates
A UK Certificate of Origin (COO) is a non-preference document that certifies the origin of goods based on the information provided by the exporter. It is often required by overseas clients due to legal requirements or by customs authorities as proof of the origin of the goods being exported. This document is essential in ensuring compliance with international trade laws and can facilitate smoother customs clearance in the destination country.
A UK EUR1 Movement Certificate, also known as a preference document, allows importers in certain countries to benefit from reduced or zero import duties. This is made possible through trade agreements between the UK and its partner countries. EUR1 certificates are only valid for use with countries that have an active trade agreement with the UK.
Please note that to apply for an EUR1, the goods must be of UK preferential origin and shipped directly from the UK to the country with which the UK has a trade agreement in place. The origin of a product must comply with the specific requirements of the trade agreement between the two countries or customs unions, such as the European Union. Rules may vary for each trade agreement and can include criteria like Maximum Nominal Value (MaxNOM) or Change of Chapter Heading, among others. We don’t require any evidence of UK preferential origin, as this responsibility lies with the exporter. You can view the full list of trade agreements on the UK government website.
With an increasing number of new exporters approaching us for assistance, we’ve noticed a steady flow of enquiries and frequent requests for clarification on these documents. In addition, we’ve observed a consistent number of rejected applications due to common errors or misunderstandings.
To help exporters successfully complete their Certificate of Origin and EUR1 applications, we have created this comprehensive guide. Our goal is to provide clarity and increase your chances of successful applications of these export documents.
1) General Requirements - Do I need a Certificate of Origin or a EUR1 if I’m exporting goods?
While COOs and EUR1s are often required for exports, they are not legally mandated. It is good practice to confirm with the overseas importer whether these documents are necessary, as requirements can vary by country.
2) Getting Started - I’m a new exporter or I have been requested to supply a COO or EUR1 for the first time. How do I apply for them?
For both COO or EUR1, applications must be submitted through our E-Cert platform. Please create an account here and select Greater Manchester Chamber as your Chamber of Commerce service provider. You will need to complete a Formal Undertaking listing the authorised signatories of your business. Once completed, please inform our ExportDocs team, attaching the completed Formal Undertaking, so they can activate your account for new applications.
3) Document Attestation - I have been requested to certify a document (commercial invoice, packing list, etc.). How do I attest documents?
The Chamber attests signatures, not the content of documents. Ensure the document includes the applicant's signature, which must be in the Formal Undertaking. If you want to certify documents alongside a COO or EUR1, choose this option when uploading your supporting documentation.
4) I'm exporting to a country that is part of the Arab League. Do I need an Arab Certificate of Origin, or should I apply for a UK Certificate of Origin?
Our advice is to check with your customer to determine which certificate—Arab or UK Certificate of Origin—is required. However, be aware that Arab-British Certificates of Origin typically have different costs compared to UK Certificates of Origin, depending on the destination country. Please ask for a quote when needed. Standard processing times for Arab Certificates of Origin can range between 2 to 3 weeks, so ensure you definitely need one before applying.
5) I have an account on e-CERT. Why can't I make an application even though I have an e-CERT account?
If you can't make an application despite having an account, ensure it is fully set up and approved, as issues may arise from an expired formal undertaking or account suspension; please contact our support team for assistance.
6) Am I able to make changes to a submitted application?
No changes can be made to the application itself. If amendments are needed, inform the Chamber to reject your current application so you can start a new one with the required changes.
7) Prices and Payments - How Do I Make Payment for Documentation?
To view our latest pricing for export documentation services, including UK Certificates of Origin, EUR1 Movement Certificates, and other documentation support, you can consult our full pricelist here. Members benefit from a 30-day credit and receive a VAT invoice shortly after approval of the application. This benefit is exclusive to Chamber members. If you’re interested in membership, which also includes a 50% discount on documentation services, please let our team know. For non-members, after processing, a payment link will be sent for application approval. No applications will be approved until payment is arranged via the provided payment link. Alternatively, you can make payments for your documentation through the following methods:
- In-Person Payment
If you are applying in person at one of our offices (Manchester Deansgate or World Freight Terminal), payments can be made via credit or debit card.
- Bank Transfer
For larger companies or those with a business account, payment via bank transfer is also available. Please contact us for bank details and reference instructions.
8) Common Rejections and Issues - Why are my applications being rejected now when they were accepted before?
Rejections may occur due to updates in laws and regulations. We are constantly audited by the British Chamber of Commerce, which provides us with new guidelines regularly, and we ask all applicants to adhere to these updates. Common reasons for rejection include incorrect consignee information, mismatched applicant and signatory details, and incorrect or missing documentation. For a comprehensive list of common errors that lead to rejection, please refer to our full guidelines. You can find information on common errors for Certificate of Origin applications here and for EUR1 applications here.
Marks and Numbers When completing your application, be meticulous with the declaration of Marks and Numbers in Box 6 (for Certificate of Origin) and Box 8 (for EUR1). Inaccuracies in these boxes can lead to application rejection. If you have received a rejection due to the marks section, please refer to our guideline for inputting the correct information in this box for a successful application: Important Updates on Declaring Marks and Numbers in Certificate of Origin Applications.
Rejection reasons are provided in the notification email you receive.
9) Foreign Origin Evidence - I’m exporting non-UK origin goods, and I have been requested to provide foreign supporting documentation. What documents can serve as Foreign Origin evidence?
You can provide a manufacturer’s invoice, signed certificates from relevant authorities, or declarations on company letterhead as supporting documentation. We have a comprehensive guide outlining the documentary evidence required for non-UK origin goods to be submitted with your UK Certificate of Origin request. You can view this guidance here.
10) I’m a freight agent or I’m applying on behalf of another company:
- If you are applying on behalf another company, For a COO:
- Box 1: Name and address of the exporter – it must be a UK company with a full UK address. “United Kingdom” must follow the address (“UK” will not be accepted).
- Exception: It can be a UK company “on behalf of” a foreign company. A Letter of Authority must be presented with the application.
- If you are a freight agent, Box 9: This box is only to be completed when the application is being completed by an agent on behalf of the exporter.
- If you are applying on behalf another company, For an EUR1:
- Box 1: Name and address of the exporter – it must be a UK company with a full UK address. “United Kingdom” must follow the address (“UK” will not be accepted).
- Exception: It can be a UK company “on behalf of” a foreign company (name only, not the address). A Letter of Authority must be presented with the application.
- If you are an agent, Box 12: This must be signed by the agent as long as we have an authority letter (different template than COO).
Remember, authority letters must be provided along the supporting documents for every application differ for COO and EUR1. Templates for each are available here and here [enter link for each].
11) Processing Times - How long will it take to process my application?
Our standard processing time is within 48 hours. Priority Service is available for 12 hours, and Priority Premium Service for 2 hours, subject to additional fees. You can explore our price list for more details.
12) Service Options: What's the Difference Between Express and Standard Services?
For new applicants, the terms "Express" and "Standard" may cause some confusion, as they do not refer to processing time. Here's what each option actually means:
- Express Service: Your documents are made available for immediate direct download and printing.
- Standard Service: Your documents are physically sent to you via Royal Mail or can be collected from your nearest Chamber office.
13) I'm applying for a Certificate of Origin. What are my printing options?
As of 1st of April 2023, GM Chamber UK Certificates of Origin have switched to plain paper. This means the pre-printed UK Certificates of Origin currently in circulation are no longer valid, as the entire certificate is now printed. If you select the express option (as explained in point 12), once your application is approved, you can print the certificate using your own colour printer. This switch simplifies the printing process for exporters, eliminating the need to correctly insert a blank Certificate of Origin into the printer. Certificates of Origin must be printed in colour, with a watermark, and meet the standard required by customs authorities.
Conclusion and Support
The application process for export documentation is fairly straightforward, but it is critical to ensure that all information provided matches the supporting documentation exactly. Inconsistencies, typos, or errors can result in delays, rejection, and additional costs, including a £15.00 rejection fee if your application is rejected multiple times.
Greater Manchester Chamber is committed to supporting exporters throughout the process. Here’s how we can help:
- UK Certificates of Origin & EUR1 Movement Certificate: Step-by-Step Workshop
This course is ideal for both beginners and experienced exporters who want to refresh their knowledge. You'll gain the confidence to handle UK Certificates of Origin with ease and accuracy. Our next workshop is on 17th of October. Register here.
- Application Preparation Service
We can assist you with setting up an account on the e-z cert platform and ensure your application is submitted successfully. Prices vary depending on your membership status. You can find detailed pricing in our pricelist here.
If you have further questions or need assistance, please reach out to us for clarification. We are here to help!
Contact us at
T: 0161 393 4314 | 0161 483 3170