Navigating Sevington for Your ATA Carnet: A Step-by-Step Guide

We spoke to Mark Benson, Global Events Manager at Amalgam Collection, a Bristol-based company renowned for their handcrafted scale models of luxury cars. Recently, they used a Business West ATA Carnet to transport some of their model car samples to the Le Mans event. The journey took them through the Sevington Inland Border Facility for customs processing. If you haven’t used Sevington to process your Carnet before, Mark shared his experience with us, and we’ve compiled this handy guide to help you navigate the process!

1. Preparation Before Departure:

• Carnet Documentation: Ensure you have all your ATA Carnet documents ready, including detailed descriptions, country of origin codes, and accurate valuations.
• Goods Movement Reference (GMR) Number: You'll need a GMR number, particularly if you use a freight service. Technically those moving in a personal vehicle or a passenger route shouldn’t need one, but as Sevington is primarily a freight facility we would recommend a GMR as many private/passengers are asked for one. Business West offers a GMR service.   
• Allow Extra Time: Plan for additional time in your schedule to account for customs checks at Sevington, both when departing and returning to the UK.
  
  

2. Arrival at Sevington:

• Facilities: There are no facilities apart from the toilets and a coffee machine.
• Follow Directions: Upon arriving at Sevington, follow the signs directing you to the designated parking area. You’ll be assigned a specific parking bay (e.g., H18 in Mark’s case), which will be crucial for your paperwork.
• Take Note of Your Parking Space: Remember your parking bay number and vehicle registration, as you’ll need this information during the customs process.

3. Checking In at the Customs Office:

• Locate the Portacabins: After parking, head to the portacabins where customs processing takes place. These are typically a short walk from the parking area.
• Inform the Staff: Let the staff know that you’re there for an ATA Carnet export. They’ll direct you to the appropriate cabin (e.g., Cabin 3).
• Provide Necessary Information: Fill out a brief form with your name, contact details, vehicle registration, and parking space. Submit this form along with your carnet documents to the customs officer.

4. Waiting for Customs Processing:

• Return to Your Vehicle: After handing in your paperwork, return to your vehicle to wait for a text message indicating that your ATA Carnet is ready.
• Patience is Key: The waiting time can vary, typically around 25-35 minutes depending on how busy it is. Be prepared to wait in or near your vehicle until you receive notification.

5. Collecting Your Processed Carnet:

• Return to the Office: Once you receive the text message, head back to the customs office to collect your processed ATA Carnet documents.
• Friendly Staff: According to Mark, the staff at Sevington are helpful, especially if you’re new to the process, so don’t hesitate to ask questions if you’re unsure about anything.

6. Proceeding to the Channel Crossing:

• Drive to the Shuttle Terminal: After processing your documents, drive to the Channel Shuttle terminal as instructed.
• GMR Check: Be ready to present your GMR number at the gate. 

7. Crossing the Channel:

• Expect Smooth Processing: Mark found that the actual crossing was straightforward. Customs checks were minimal, and there were no significant delays at the terminal.
• Follow the signs for Customs: Upon arrival in France and as you exit the train remember to follow the signs for the customs, rather than the signs towards the exit. 
  
  

8. Returning to the UK:

• Sevington: Upon re-entering the UK, return to Sevington. This process is similar to your initial visit and should take between 25 - 35 minutes, depending on traffic.

For more information, check out our important information for drivers/hauliers page.