Here is a clean trace of a standard GB to NI road movement across the four HMRC systems.
Step 1: Trader submits movement information
A single entry captures the goods, value, procedure, transport and route. This is the source of truth for everything downstream.
Step 2: TSS validates and routes
TSS enriches the entry, checks it against reference data, and sends structured payloads out.
Step 3: CDS returns the customs decision
The declaration is filed and returns a decision on duty, procedure and clearance status. CDS is the answer to "what did customs decide about these goods".
Step 4: ICS2 receives safety and security data
Safety and security data goes to ICS2 before the goods arrive. This is a separate obligation from the customs declaration.
Step 5: GVMS bundles references into a GMR
GVMS packages the declaration references into a single Goods Movement Reference. The driver presents the GMR at check-in. The Goods Movement Reference explained view covers what causes rejection.
Step 6: Vehicle embarks
When the vessel departs, the movement moves to embarked status. That triggers the automated downstream processes.
Practical takeaway
Every step depends on clean data at Step 1. That is where engineering effort pays back.
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