Specialist UK Solicitors for Chinese Companies Facing HMRC or Border Force Seizures.
When goods exported from China, Hong Kong, Taiwan or Singapore are stopped or seized by UK Border Force or HMRC, the consequences can be serious. Delays or seizures can disrupt your business, damage customer relationships and affect sales on platforms such as Amazon, eBay, TikTok Shop and Temu.
Our UK-based lawyers specialise in helping international exporters resolve issues with UK Border Force quickly and effectively. We work with many Chinese manufacturers, trading companies, freight forwarders and e-commerce sellers whose goods have been detained at UK ports and airports.
Trusted UK lawyers for cross-border import disputes
Rogers & Norton is recognised as a leading UK firm in this niche area of law. We have acted in hundreds of HMRC and Border Force cases, including the detention, stoppage and seizure of consumer electronics, fashion, footwear, textiles, toys, household goods, medical devices, jewellery, luxury items, vape products, nitrous oxide cases, and food, plant or animal-based items that fall under APHA restrictions.
We frequently assist clients whose shipments have been detained at major UK entry points such as Felixstowe, Southampton, London Gateway, Dover, Heathrow and Stansted.
Distance is no issue – we act for clients across the world, with many of our cases involving companies based in China, Hong Kong, Taiwan and Singapore.
Why Chinese exporters choose us
- Deep understanding of UK customs systems
We understand how UK Border Force operates and what evidence they need before goods can be restored. - Fast response when your goods are seized
Seizures often require urgent action. Our team responds immediately and guides you through every step. - Experience with Chinese supply chains.
We regularly work with Chinese manufacturers, trading houses, cross-border e-commerce sellers, freight forwarders and Amazon FBA or third-party logistics providers. We understand common issues such as commodity codes, valuation disputes, safety documentation, product testing, labelling and compliance paperwork.
How we can help
Our Border Force and HMRC team advises on all areas of customs and importation law, including:
- Detention, stoppage and seizure of goods by UK Border Force
- Restoration requests and internal reviews
- Commodity code, duty and VAT disputes
- Withdrawals of unlawful assessments
- APHA inspections and appeals involving restricted or controlled goods
- CITES matters involving banned materials or animal and plant products
- Medical Regulatory Health Authority issues, including health products and CBD
- Allegations of fraud or misdescription
- Claims for financial losses caused by detention
- Condemnation proceedings in the UK courts
- Urgent injunctions and judicial review applications
- Nitrous oxide importation matters under UK regulatory controls
We act swiftly to assess your case, prepare evidence and communicate with UK authorities on your behalf.
E-Commerce and product compliance expertise
We work closely with Stephen Brown, Managing Director of E-Commerce Regulations Simplified, who advises on product compliance, safety, documentation requirements for Amazon and eBay, and import rules for high-risk or regulated goods. This partnership enables us to provide practical guidance to exporters facing complex compliance challenges.
Where we are based
Our law firm is based in Norwich, United Kingdom, with additional meeting facilities in London. We represent clients across the UK and internationally, so location is never a barrier.
If your goods have been seized, contact us immediately – the sooner you contact us, the stronger your position will be.
Telephone: +44 (0)1603 666001
Email: peter.hastings@rogers-norton.co.uk
We can provide an initial assessment and explain the options available to you.
Rogers & Norton Solicitors is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) in England and Wales. All advice is provided in accordance with SRA Standards and Regulations. Our services relate solely to UK law, and we do not advise on Chinese law or the laws of any other jurisdiction.
FAQs
1. Why has UK Border Force seized my goods?
Goods may be detained or seized for several reasons, including incorrect customs declarations, wrong commodity codes, insufficient documentation, suspected undervaluation, safety or compliance concerns, APHA restrictions, IP or trademark issues, or suspicion of prohibited or controlled items.
2. How do I get my goods returned after a UK Border Force seizure?
You must make a formal restoration request to Border Force or HMRC, supported by evidence. Our team prepares these submissions and advises on the best strategy based on the reason for seizure.
3. How long does it take to resolve a Border Force seizure?
Timeframes vary, but a typical restoration decision takes several weeks. Urgent action—such as providing missing documents quickly—can shorten the process. Some cases may require an internal review or court proceedings.
4. Can I continue selling on Amazon or other platforms while my goods are seized?
If you have stock in the UK, yes. However, if the seized items were intended for Amazon FBA, you may face delays and performance issues. We regularly work with e-commerce businesses to minimise disruption.
5. What documents do UK authorities usually ask for?
Common requests include: invoices, packing lists, test reports, compliance certificates, safety documentation, product specifications, labels, commercial contracts, and manufacturing records.
6. What if UK Border Force thinks my goods are unsafe or non-compliant?
You may need to provide product test reports, declarations of conformity or regulatory documents. If items breach UK safety laws, they may not be restored. We help clients respond correctly and present the strongest case possible.
7. Are commodity codes and customs values important?
Yes. Incorrect classification or undervaluation is a common reason for detention. We advise on coding disputes and work with compliance professionals where needed.
8. Do I need a UK lawyer to deal with HMRC or Border Force?
While it is not mandatory, the process is technical and evidence-based. Many international exporters instruct us because they find communication with UK authorities challenging without local legal guidance.
9. Can Rogers & Norton help clients outside the UK?
Yes. We act for exporters worldwide, including China, Hong Kong, Taiwan and Singapore. All communication can be handled remotely via email, WeChat and video calls.
10. Does your firm guarantee that the goods will be returned?
No law firm can guarantee the outcome. However, we will provide clear advice based on our experience and the evidence available, and we work hard to achieve the best result for every client.