Customs Officers are responsible for collecting taxes and duties on imported and exported goods and prevent such transportation of banned items to or from the United Kingdom. They work for Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs (HMRC) and at airports and ports. Their duties include monitoring the movement of legally permitted goods and preventing smuggling. Customs officers oftentimes check the shipment of individuals and companies. They are also authorised to check vehicles of all kinds entering or leaving the country.

Customs officers can retain persons found with illegal items, check customs documents and more. They conduct surveillance operations, handle undercover investigations, and arrest people suspected of transporting illegal or excess goods into or out of the country. They may be required to appear as witness before the Court. Illegal transportation of valuable goods can lead to big tax losses, while smuggling of weapons or harmful substances can be dangerous to life and property. The services of customs officers are essential for safe maintenance of the society and the economy.