Starting on Friday 31st January 2025, all goods imported from the European Union into Great Britain must be accompanied by a safety and security declaration, commonly known as an Entry Summary Declaration (ENS). This requirement is a significant change in the UK's post-Brexit customs procedures, aiming to enhance border security and streamline import processes.
Understanding the ENS Requirement
An ENS is a pre-arrival notification submitted to UK customs authorities that provides detailed information about goods entering the country. The primary purpose of this declaration is to allow customs to perform risk assessments before goods reach the UK border, thereby preventing the entry of illicit items and ensuring compliance with national regulations.
Key Responsibilities
- Carriers and Hauliers: Legally, the responsibility for submitting the ENS lies with the carrier or haulier transporting the goods. However, this task can be delegated to another party, such as the importer or a customs intermediary, but the carrier remains accountable for ensuring its completion.
- Importers: Importers should proactively engage with their carriers and logistics partners to determine who will handle the ENS submission. Clear communication within the supply chain is essential to prevent delays and ensure compliance.
Steps to Ensure Compliance:
Register for the S&S GB Service: Businesses must register with the Safety and Security Great Britain (S&S GB) system to submit ENS declarations. This requires a Government Gateway account and a Great Britain Economic Operators Registration and Identification (EORI) number.
Prepare Necessary Information: The ENS requires specific data, including:
- Consignor and consignee details
- A description of the goods
- Transport information
- Routing details
- Location of goods
- Handling instructions
From 31 January 2025, the data requirements have been streamlined to include 20 mandatory fields, 8 conditional fields (required in specific circumstances), and 9 optional fields.
Utilise Appropriate Submission Methods: Since the S&S GB platform lacks a direct user interface, businesses have two primary options for submitting ENS declarations:
- Specialist Software: Develop or purchase compatible software that can interface with the S&S GB system.
- Customs Intermediaries: Engage customs agents or intermediaries who can submit declarations on your behalf.
It's advisable to assess which method aligns best with your business operations and ensure that all parties involved are adequately trained.
Exemptions and Special Cases
Certain goods are exempt from the ENS requirement, including:
- Electricity and goods transported via pipelines
- Letters, postcards, and printed materials
- Personal luggage items
- Goods declared orally to customs
It's crucial to verify whether your goods qualify for any exemptions to avoid unnecessary declarations.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
Failing to submit an ENS can lead to significant disruptions, including delays at the border, financial penalties, and potential reputational damage. Ensuring timely and accurate submissions is vital for maintaining efficient supply chain operations.
The upcoming ENS requirement represents a pivotal change in the UK's import procedures. By understanding your responsibilities, preparing necessary documentation, and engaging with supply chain partners, your business can navigate this transition smoothly, ensuring compliance and minimising potential disruptions.
For a comprehensive overview and further guidance, you can watch the official HMRC video on preparing for safety and security declarations
Full details and guidance can also be found on the government website
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