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.
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.
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:
This reduction in data requirements will simplify the declaration process, particularly for businesses already accustomed to submitting declarations for non-EU imports.
The introduction of these declarations is designed to:
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.
The UK government encourages businesses to take proactive steps to ensure a seamless transition:
By acting now, businesses can:
The UK government has provided several resources to help businesses prepare for these changes:
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.