The platform that runs our duty recovery process.
The Meridian Compliance Engine is the technology layer behind every service we deliver. It automates MRN matching, evidence pack assembly, CDS filing, exception handling, and compliance reporting from a single, audit-ready workflow.
Built for UK importers, e-commerce retailers, and 3PL partners who need a defensible, scalable compliance process without adding headcount.
HMRC-registered • CDS-integrated • Audit-ready evidence packs • 7-year retention
Six stages. One automated compliance workflow.
Every case moves through a defined lifecycle with clear ownership, stage gates, and an immutable audit log at each step. Nothing is filed with gaps. Nothing is abandoned without a documented reason.
Data intake
Returns, import, and export data ingested via API, webhook, or CSV from your existing platforms. Normalised into a unified schema and validated at intake.
Case creation
Each eligible return or re-export is created as a structured case with a defined lifecycle: intake, matching, evidence build, QA, filing, and outcome tracking.
MRN matching
The matching engine links each case to its original export declaration using a three-layer algorithm. Unresolvable cases route to a structured exception queue.
Evidence pack build
All required documents are assembled into a checklist-driven, HMRC-ready evidence pack. QA runs before filing. Nothing is submitted with gaps.
CDS filing
Declarations submitted to HMRC via CDS under Direct Representation. Border outcomes tracked and reconciled. Queries and rejections managed within the same workflow.
Reporting
Recovery value, compliance health, and exception status reported in real time. Finance packs available for download. Evidence retained for the full HMRC review period.
Six modules. Each one eliminates a specific failure point.
Most duty recovery claims fail because of gaps in matching, evidence, or exception handling. Each module in the Compliance Engine is built to close one of those gaps.
MRN Matching
A three-layer algorithm links each return or re-export to its original export declaration. Layer one uses Order ID and date window. Layer two uses tracking number. Layer three uses shipment reference. Cases that cannot be resolved automatically route to a structured exception queue.
Evidence Pack Assembly
Every document HMRC requires is collected, structured, and quality-checked before filing. Intake photos, condition grading, commercial invoices, transport documents, and export references are assembled into a checklist-driven pack that is version-controlled and retrievable on demand.
CDS Filing Engine
RGR and Drawback declarations are prepared and submitted via HMRC's Customs Declaration Service under Direct Representation. The correct relief logic is applied per case. Query and rejection responses are tracked and managed within the same workflow.
Exception Triage
Structured exception types, severity levels, clear ownership, and escalation paths. Every decision is documented in an auditable trail. Root cause analysis feeds back into data quality improvement so the same gap does not recur.
Data Quality Scorecard
Incoming data is scored in real time against required fields. Missing MRNs, incomplete references, and format errors are flagged before they become claim failures. The scorecard improves match rates over time as data gaps are addressed.
Compliance Reporting
Role-based dashboards for clients, 3PL partners, and Meridian operators. Recovery value, compliance health score, cycle time, exception queue depth, and finance-ready export packs. One source of truth for every stakeholder.
One engine. Every eligible relief type.
The Compliance Engine handles all four recovery routes from a single workflow. Most businesses qualify for more than one. A structured audit checks all routes simultaneously so nothing is missed.
Returned Goods Relief (RGR)
Goods exported from the UK and returned in the same state. The Engine matches each return to its original export MRN, assembles the evidence pack, and files the RGR declaration via CDS.
Customs Drawback
Goods imported into the UK (duty paid) and subsequently re-exported. The Engine links import entries to export proof and files for drawback where eligible, covering up to three years.
Duty Overpayments
Incorrect HS codes, customs valuations, or country of origin errors at import. The Engine identifies overpayment opportunities and files C285 amendments or CDS corrections.
EU Returns Workflow
Purpose-built for EU duty drawback and the incoming EUR 3 levy on low-value parcels. Evidence packs built automatically for EU returns at scale, ready for recovery from day one.
Three-year lookback: HMRC allows claims on returns and re-exports going back up to three years from the original export or import date. For businesses that have been paying duty and VAT without claiming relief, this represents a significant recovery opportunity that a historical audit can quantify.
What teams see inside the Compliance Engine.
The same underlying workflow, tailored by role. Clients get recovery reporting and compliance transparency. 3PL partners get intake and exception handling. Meridian operators get end-to-end control.
Client dashboard
Recovery value, compliance health, and finance-ready reporting in one view.
- Executive snapshot: recovered vs pending, total cases, and open exceptions
- Compliance transparency: evidence completion and exception visibility
- Finance ROI panel with downloadable finance pack
MRN matching engine
Link return cases to export MRNs at scale with a structured work queue.
- Search by Order ID, MRN, or client
- Clear unmatched to matched workflow with match rate visibility
- Operator actions: link MRN, export datasets, refresh queues
3PL intake and exception control
Built for warehouse teams: intake queues, condition grading, and exception reporting.
- Site-filtered intake queues for multi-warehouse operations
- Structured exception types with clear ownership and escalation paths
- Standardised data capture to reduce downstream claim failures
Connects to the systems you already use.
The Compliance Engine ingests data from your existing platforms via API, webhook, or CSV. No migration project. We normalise your data into a unified schema and start processing.
Custom integrations available for enterprise clients with proprietary ERP or WMS systems.
Built for compliance-grade operations.
Every layer of the Compliance Engine is designed with security, auditability, and data protection at its core. Your data is isolated, your actions are logged, and your evidence is retained for the full HMRC review period.
JWT authentication
Token-based auth with role-based access control across all endpoints.
Workspace isolation
Multi-tenant architecture with strict data separation between clients.
Five-level RBAC
System Admin, Operator, Approver, Client Admin, and Viewer roles.
Immutable audit logs
Every action timestamped and traceable. Cannot be modified or deleted.
7-year evidence retention
Case data and evidence retained for the full HMRC review period.
PII controls
Personal data handling aligned with UK GDPR requirements.
Want to see how the Compliance Engine fits your operation?
We will map your current returns or re-export flow, identify the minimum data fields required, and show how the Engine automates compliance and reduces exceptions across your specific setup.