Customs Glossary

What is MRN?

A plain-English definition for UK importers and exporters.

An MRN (Movement Reference Number) is the unique number issued when a customs or safety-and-security declaration is accepted, and it is used to track that movement through to clearance.

What does MRN stand for?

MRN stands for Movement Reference Number. The system generates it automatically once a declaration is accepted.

Who needs an MRN?

Anyone moving goods under a customs declaration — it links the declaration to the physical consignment, and at RoRo ports it is added to a goods movement record so the vehicle can travel.

How it relates to classification

The MRN is the reference for the whole movement, but the data behind it — including the commodity code — is what determines duty and controls. A wrong code on an accepted declaration still has to be corrected.

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FAQ

Frequently asked questions

It is returned by the customs system when your declaration is accepted, and appears on the declaration confirmation.

No — the EORI identifies the trader; the MRN identifies a specific declaration or movement.