Using the New Computerised Transit System (NCTS) to move goods

The EDIFACT system sends and receives messages as email attachments, or in the body of the email.

To use this system you’ll need to buy specialised software or develop software that is compatible with NCTS.

If you buy or develop software, you must ensure it is fully compatible with NCTS. Download the technical interface specification (TIS) and the TIS appendices for phase 4 of NCTS at New Computerised Transit System: technical specifications.

HMRC has a test service so you can check your software is compatible before you start using it.

There’s a technical pack if you want to develop your own NCTS system. Testing and technical information, along with a list of NCTS software developers, is available.

If you develop your own software, you’ll need to contact the NCTS helpdesk before you connect to the NCTS system for the first time.

Read technical information about EDIFACT declarations.

If you send an EDIFACT message to NCTS using your own trader software, it will need to translate your declaration into an EDIFACT coded message that NCTS can read. NCTS will then accept or reject the declaration in EDIFACT. Your trader software must also be able to translate this.