Safety and security declarations for EU imports to the United Kingdom.

UK government extends the waiver for Safety and Security declarations 

Update from 07/10/2024: The UK government has extended the waiver for Safety and Security declarations (ENS) for goods imported from the EU. The new implementation date is 31 January 2025, postponed from the previously announced date of 31 October 2024. This extension also applies to the implementation of a reduced ENS declaration dataset and the first release of the Single Trade Window to support the Safety and Security functionality.

S&S declarations required as part of the Border Target Operating Model (BTOM)

The Border Target Operating Model (BTOM) outlines a phased approach to implementing new border controls in the UK following Brexit. The introduction of S&S declarations is a key step in ensuring the UK's ability to effectively manage and secure its borders, protecting against potential risks and threats.

Submitting S&S declarations

The carrier of the goods is responsible for submitting S&S declarations through the relevant Safety and Security service.

• If you're shipping to or through Great Britain, register for the Safety and Security Great Britain service (S&S GB) here using your Government Gateway user ID and password.
• For shipments to or through Northern Ireland, register for the Entry Summary Declaration Northern Ireland service here.

Required data for UK customs S&S declarations

UK importers will need to provide the following data for an S&S declaration:

• Information about the goods: Description, commodity code, quantity, packaging, and value.
• Details of the parties involved: Consignor, consignee, carrier, and agent.
• Transportation information: Vessel, conveyance, container, or vehicle; route; mode of transport; and expected arrival date and time.
• Identification numbers: EORI numbers of the carrier and relevant parties; IMO vessel number, flight number, or vehicle registration number; and transportation document number (e.g., bill of lading, air waybill, CMR waybill).
• Location information: Relevant location code or port of entry code.

Deadlines for S&S declarations

The deadline for submitting S&S declarations depends on the mode of transport used for the import. The general deadlines are as follows:

• Maritime and air transport: Declarations must be submitted at least 2 hours before the goods arrive at the UK border.
• Rail transport: Declarations must be submitted at least 4 hours before the goods arrive at the UK border.
• Road transport: Declarations must be submitted at least 1 hour before the goods arrive at the UK border.

Amending S&S declarations

In case information needs to be updated after the initial declaration was submitted, an amendment can be filed. Amendments must be made before the goods arrive at the UK border. The particulars concerning the person lodging the declaration and the representative cannot be amended.

More information about the safety & security declarations

For more detailed information, consult the following resources:

• HMRC: Safety and security requirements on imports and exports
• HMRC: The Border Target Operating Model