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BIRDS

Bulk Import Reduced Data Set (BIRDS) — Expert UK Support for High-Volume Imports

At Freight Connect Services, we make Bulk Import Reduced Data Set (BIRDS) simple, fast, and fully compliant. This HMRC customs simplification moves large volumes of low-value consignments efficiently—no headaches, no delays. If you’re importing thousands of parcels from eCommerce orders, Bulk Import Reduced Data Set (BIRDS) cuts admin time, speeds customs clearance, and keeps deliveries on track. We handle everything from authorisation to compliant declarations, so your operation benefits from BIRDS while we handle the complexities.

What Is the Bulk Import Reduced Data Set (BIRDS)?

Bulk Import Reduced Data Set (BIRDS) lets authorised traders declare multiple low-value parcels on a single import declaration using streamlined data. We designed this for consistent, high-volume flows with clear VAT treatment where VAT gets collected at checkout and accounted for via your VAT return. Despite the name, Bulk Import Reduced Data Set (BIRDS) has nothing to do with live animals—it’s a customs simplification that makes bulk low-value parcels move fast.

Who Can Use BIRDS?

UK-established businesses with solid customs compliance records and professional, auditable procedures can apply for Bulk Import Reduced Data Set (BIRDS) authorisation. You’ll also need controls that prevent prohibited or restricted goods entering under the scheme. We help you meet these requirements.

Collage of ecommerce, wholesale and manufacturing brands

Benefits of Using BIRDS for Importers

Fewer declarations, faster throughput

One BIRDS entry covers many parcels. Perfect for marketplace and eCommerce flows.

Streamlined data requirements

Bulk Import Reduced Data Set (BIRDS) needs fewer fields than full import entries, cutting admin time and eliminating keying errors.

Clear VAT handling

VAT collected at checkout gets reconciled and evidenced against BIRDS consignments. We make it straightforward.

Scalable compliance

Standardised processes and audit trails that HMRC expects. No surprises.

Predictable costs

Fewer submissions and streamlined handling keep operational spend under control.

How Freight Connect Services Supports BIRDS Applications & Compliance We deliver a complete Bulk Import Reduced Data Set (BIRDS) enablement package that works

Readiness & Eligibility

We confirm your volumes, product mix, VAT treatment, and systems work for Bulk Import Reduced Data Set (BIRDS). Any gaps against HMRC criteria? We identify and fix them quickly.

We prepare your application, write or refine SOPs, and align internal controls with BIRDS requirements. HMRC sees a complete, audit-ready picture from day one.

Our customs team maps your order feed to the reduced data set and submits accurate BIRDS entries in the Customs Declaration Service (CDS). We manage queries and responses so you don’t have to.

We help you evidence point-of-sale VAT where due, maintain robust audit trails, and reconcile finance records to Bulk Import Reduced Data Set (BIRDS) declarations. Clean data you can trust.

We build exception handling, sampling, and periodic reviews that keep your BIRDS authorisation in good standing. Proactive monitoring, no problems.

Step-by-Step Working With Us

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Discovery Call

We review your flows, sales channels, product categories, and current customs steps for Bulk Import Reduced Data Set (BIRDS) suitability. Plain-English assessment.

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Gap Analysis

We assess eligibility (UK establishment, compliance record, professional procedures) and agree remediation where needed. No guesswork.

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Application Pack

We compile your HMRC application and supporting SOPs/controls for BIRDS. Complete and professional.

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Systems & Data Mapping

We map your order data to reduced dataset fields for CDS and test data integrity. Everything works before go-live.

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Pilot Declarations

We submit supervised live entries, validate VAT treatment, and reconcile declarations to finance. Smooth transition guaranteed.

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Go-Live & Monitoring

We implement dashboards, exception reporting, and periodic reviews for sustained BIRDS compliance. Full visibility.

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Continuous Optimisation

Quarterly tune-ups maintain speed and accuracy as volumes or product lines change. Always improving.

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Who Chooses Freight Connect Services

  • BIRDS & CDS expertise – Experienced specialists in high-volume, low-value parcel flows and precise CDS submissions. We know what works.
  • Compliance-first delivery – Procedures, controls, and documentation aligned to Bulk Import Reduced Data Set (BIRDS) standards from day one. Right the first time.
  • eCommerce-ready workflows – Data ingestion from marketplaces and carts, with VAT evidence and audit trails built in. No additional setup required.
  • Predictable pricing & SLAs – Clear scope, timelines, and reporting for stakeholders. No surprises on costs or delivery.
Collage of ecommerce, wholesale and manufacturing brands

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What exactly qualifies for BIRDS?
Multiple low-value parcels consolidated under one declaration using streamlined data. Perfect for high-volume eCommerce shipments that need fast processing.

No. Bulk Import Reduced Data Set (BIRDS) is a customs simplification for low-value parcels, not a veterinary import regime. Simple naming confusion.

VAT gets collected at point of sale and accounted for via your VAT return where applicable. We help you maintain the evidence HMRC expects—clean and compliant.

Timeframes vary by HMRC workload and your readiness. Our preparation and SOPs reduce back-and-forth and speed up approval. Professional submissions get faster results. 

Documented procedures, staff training, data checks, and controls that exclude prohibited/restricted goods from BIRDS consignments. We help you build these systems. 

Yes. Freight Connect Services operates your Bulk Import Reduced Data Set (BIRDS) declarations, manages exceptions, and maintains audit trails. Full service, full compliance.

Call to Action

Ready to streamline high-volume imports with Bulk Import Reduced Data Set (BIRDS)? Contact Freight Connect Services today to confirm eligibility, secure authorisation, and run compliant BIRDS declarations at scale. Visit our Contact page to speak with a specialist who makes it simple.

For official guidance, link this text to HMRC’s page on applying to use Bulk Import