How to Create a GMR via GVMS: Step-by-Step Guide

How to Create a GMR via GVMS

Creating a Goods Movement Reference (GMR) through the Goods Vehicle Movement Service (GVMS) is a straightforward process once you know what you need. This guide walks you through every step.

Before You Start: What You Need

Before creating a GMR, ensure you have:

A valid EORI number (Economic Operators Registration and Identification)
A Government Gateway account linked to your business
GVMS registration completed for your organisation
All declaration references for your goods movement (MRN, DUCR, ENS — depending on your route)
Vehicle and trailer registration numbers

Step 1: Register with GVMS

If you haven't already, you must register your business with the Goods Vehicle Movement Service:

Go to gov.uk and search for "Register for the Goods Vehicle Movement Service"
Sign in with your Government Gateway credentials
Complete the registration form with your business and EORI details
Wait for confirmation from HMRC (usually within a few working days)

Step 2: Gather Your Declaration References

The exact references you need depend on your route:

GB to Northern Ireland

TSS ENS email — confirming completed Safety & Security declaration authorisation
TSS SFD email — for customs declaration (either EORI number email for non-controlled goods, or MRN email for controlled items)

GB to EU

DUCR (Declaration Unique Consignment Reference) from your export declaration
Safety & security exit summary references

EU to Great Britain

MRN (Movement Reference Number) from import declarations
Entry declaration references

Step 3: Sign In to GVMS

Go to the GVMS service at gov.uk
Sign in with your Government Gateway credentials
Navigate to "Create a GMR"

Step 4: Enter Vehicle Details

Enter the vehicle and/or trailer registration number for the movement. If you're using a different vehicle at the port, you can update this later.

Step 5: Link Your Declarations

This is the critical step. Enter each declaration reference for your movement:

Add MRN references one by one
Add DUCR references for exports
Add ENS/safety and security references
If goods can be declared orally or by conduct, select the appropriate option

Important: Every declaration for goods on that vehicle must be linked. Missing a single reference will make the GMR invalid.

Step 6: Review and Submit

Review all linked references carefully before submitting. Once satisfied:

Click "Create GMR"
Note your GMR reference number
Share the GMR reference with your driver and haulier

Step 7: Present at the Port

Your driver presents the GMR at the departure port. The carrier or port operator will:

Scan or check the GMR reference
Verify all declarations are linked correctly
Permit embarkation if the GMR is valid

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Missing declarations: Every customs declaration for goods on the vehicle must be linked
Wrong vehicle registration: The registration on the GMR must match the physical vehicle
Creating GMR too early: Some declarations have short validity windows
Not updating for vehicle changes: If the vehicle changes, update the GMR before port arrival

Need Professional Help?

Creating GMRs correctly requires attention to detail and knowledge of GVMS requirements. Our specialists at CreateGMR handle the entire process for you, ensuring your GMR is always valid and ready.