Customs

Preparing for New Safety and Security Declaration Requirements for UK Imports

January 20, 2025
Sasha Khan
Marketing Manager
8 Minutes

As the trade landscape continues to evolve, businesses importing goods into the United Kingdom from the European Union must stay informed about upcoming regulatory changes. Effective 31 January 2025, the UK government will require safety and security declarations for all goods imported from the EU to Great Britain. These changes are a crucial step toward enhancing border security and ensuring a smooth flow of trade. Here’s everything you need to know about these new requirements and how to prepare for them.

What Are Safety and Security Declarations?

Safety and security declarations, also known as Entry Summary Declarations (ENS), are a critical part of the UK’s customs process. These declarations provide key data about goods entering the country, including their origin, content, and transportation details. The primary purpose is to enhance security by enabling authorities to assess risks before goods arrive at the border.

While these declarations have long been required for goods imported from non-EU countries, the introduction of this requirement for EU imports marks a significant change for businesses that previously operated without these obligations.

What’s Changing on 31 January 2025?

Starting 31 January 2025, all imports from the EU to Great Britain must include safety and security declarations. The good news is that the UK government is streamlining the process by introducing a simplified dataset, making compliance easier for businesses:

  • 20 mandatory data fields
  • 8 conditional data fields (required only in specific circumstances)
  • 9 optional data fields

This reduction in data requirements will simplify the declaration process, particularly for businesses already accustomed to submitting declarations for non-EU imports.

Why Are These Changes Important?

The introduction of these declarations is designed to:

  • Enhance border security and prevent illegal activity.
  • Facilitate trade by creating a consistent process for all imports.
  • Enable businesses to prepare for a future where digital and streamlined trade compliance is the norm.

Who Is Responsible for Submitting Declarations?

The legal responsibility for submitting safety and security declarations lies with carriers or hauliers. However, carriers can delegate this responsibility to third parties, such as freight forwarders or customs brokers. It’s crucial to note that the ultimate accountability remains with the carrier, so collaboration with trusted partners is essential.

How Can Businesses Prepare?

The UK government encourages businesses to take proactive steps to ensure a seamless transition:

  1. Start Submitting Declarations Before the Deadline: Familiarise yourself with the process by beginning to submit safety and security declarations ahead of the 31 January 2025 implementation date.
  1. Collaborate with Supply Chain Partners: Assign clear roles and responsibilities within your supply chain to ensure that all parties understand their obligations.
  1. Review and Update Systems: Assess your current systems and processes to ensure they can handle the new requirements. Consider working with technology providers or customs experts to streamline your operations.
  1. Stay Informed: Regularly consult government guidance and industry resources to stay updated on any changes or additional requirements.
  1. Watch our webinar: Our experts went live to share the ins and outs of the new regulations. Catch up on demand now for the full update.

Key Benefits of Early Preparation

By acting now, businesses can:

  • Minimise Disruptions: Avoid delays or penalties by ensuring compliance before the deadline.
  • Streamline Operations: Use the simplified dataset to make the declaration process more efficient.
  • Build Confidence: Equip your team with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate the new regulations.

Resources and Support

The UK government has provided several resources to help businesses prepare for these changes:

  • Official Guidance: Access detailed information on the new requirements here.
  • Video Overview: Watch the informative video explaining the new safety and security declaration requirements here.
  • Trade Representatives: Consult with trade bodies and industry representatives for tailored advice.

The introduction of safety and security declarations for EU imports is a pivotal change for UK trade. While it presents new challenges, it also offers an opportunity for businesses to modernise their operations and strengthen compliance frameworks. By understanding the requirements, preparing early, and leveraging available resources, you can ensure a seamless transition and maintain the efficiency of your supply chain.

Stay ahead of the curve and take the necessary steps today to prepare for 31 January 2025. For further assistance or to learn more about how these changes may impact your business, feel free to reach out to our team of customs experts.

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