How long will it take?
The UK Certificates are processed within 8 hours, any on-demand Certificates are processed within 2 hours.
Is there a difference between UK and Arab Certificates of Origin?
Yes, Arab Certificates of Origin cover Arab League States and United Kingdom Certificates cover the rest of the world (please note that Egypt, Iran, and Turkey use UK Certificates of Origin).
Can I have a UK Certificate for an Arab destination?
Yes, you must confirm with your client whether a UK Certificate of Origin will be sufficient to clear the goods (as an Arab CO should be used for Arab League destinations). When you apply online indemnity wording will be automatically placed on the reverse of the application.
Can the documents be dealt with the post?
Yes, Postal applications (unless otherwise advised) are returned by 1st class post. Please note that, as we cannot take responsibility for any items lost in the postal system, it is strongly advised that the applicant uses the Special Post Delivery Service (cost of this service is currently £9.00 per envelope).
Do you provide extra copies of the document for processing?
If the document is to be legalised (i.e. by an embassy) we will require three copies of the document.
Which certificate should I use for export to Egypt?
You must use a UK Certificate of Origin for Egypt. This can be certified only by Glasgow Chamber of Commerce if suffice for the overseas customer. However, should they wish for a Certificate of Origin to be certified/legalized by the Egyptian embassy, Glasgow Chamber can organise the full process with the Egyptian Embassy. Please note that any exporters to Egypt should register their goods and factories with the Egyptian General Organization for Export & Import Control www.goeic.gov.eg
When applying to the Chamber for a Certificate of Origin, what documents do I need to include as back up?
A Commercial Invoice must always be submitted with a Certificate of Origin (CO). A CO is basically a Certificate of Manufacture. When you tell us the goods are of UK Origin, we simply need the full name and address of the manufacturer to be shown on the back of the pink Application Page. If the goods are of foreign origin, we still require the full names and addresses. We also require commercial documentary proof such as a copy of the Certificate of Origin provided by the manufacturer, a Manufacturer’s Commercial Invoice or a Suppliers Declaration.
Where do I get my UK Certificate of Origin and other documents processed?
Glasgow Chamber of Commerce, 30 George Square, Glasgow G2 1EQ
Monday to Thursday: 8.30 am – 5.00 pm
Friday: 8.30 am to 3.00 pm (Latest on-demand applications on Friday are at 2.45 pm)
One member of the team will be available between 3.00 pm and 4.00 pm for any urgent advice. Please contact us either by calling 0141 204 2121 or via email: documentation@glasgowchamberofcommerce.com
Glasgow Chamber of Commerce is closed on all Glasgow Public Holidays and the office normally closes at 3.00 pm on the Friday before any Public Holiday.
Do the Certificates of Origin have to be signed by the company?
Yes, Pink Application will be digitally signed and dated when applying on our online system essCert by an authorised signatory of the company whose signature is on the Formal Undertaking held by the Chamber online.
Can I get extra copies of the UK certificates certified?
Yes, for DIY applications you can print additional copies when issuing the originals.
My documents were produced in the British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Jersey, or Guernsey. Can they be processed by Glasgow Chamber of Commerce or legalised in the UK?
Yes, however, they will need to be apostilled by the BVI / Cayman Island Governor or Guernsey / Jersey Bailiwick first and then by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in London. – (Remove section)
I would like to be able to check import duty rates applicable to my customers overseas. Is there anywhere I could try?
At Glasgow Chamber of Commerce we have our own ChamberCustoms service. Contact our Customs Agents for more information.
Other useful links:
The World Customs Organisation (WCO) website (On the home page, select “About us” from the left-hand side and then “National Customs Website”. Select your country and it will take you into the tariff pages. Please note that we cannot guarantee the accuracy of the data or that the relevant websites will work.
How to complete UK Certificate of Origin
Click here for guidance notes.
UK Certificate of Origin applications for overseas exporters
Click on the below link for further information on UK Certificate of Origin applications for overseas exporters.
