Changes to UK Customs Clearance Rules (Effective from 31 January 2025)

As of the New year 2025, the UK has implemented several significant changes to its customs clearance procedures, particularly affecting imports from the European Union (EU).

Hence it is important that if you are moving goods /out the UK, you are using a qualified Here’s an overview of the key updates that your Customs Clearance Agent UK should advise you of:

1.Mandatory Safety and Security Declarations for EU Imports

Starting 31 January 2025, all goods imported from the EU to Great Britain must be accompanied by a Safety and Security Declaration, also known as an Entry Summary Declaration (ENS). This requirement aims to enhance border security and streamline customs processes. While carriers are legally responsible for submitting the ENS, your Customs Clearance Agent UK importers or intermediaries can lodge the declaration on their behalf.

  1. Simplified ENS Dataset

To facilitate compliance, the UK government has reduced the amount of information required for ENS submissions. The new dataset includes:

  • 20 mandatory fields
  • 8 conditional fields (required only in specific circumstances)
  • 9 optional fields (can be left blank if not relevant) 

This simplification aims to ease the administrative burden on businesses and your Customs Clearance Agent UK will be able to follow this more easily.

  1. Changes to Waiver Codes

Effective from 1 February 2025, the previously used waiver code ‘999L’ for import declarations will no longer be valid. Businesses must use alternative document codes to apply for waivers, ensuring compliance with the Customs Declaration Service (CDS) .

Ask to your Customs Clearance Agent UK more explanation.

  1. Implementation of Import Control System 2 (ICS2)

The EU’s Import Control System 2 (ICS2) is being phased in to enhance safety and security for goods entering the EU and the UK. Key milestones include:

  • 1 April 2025: Maritime house-level filing requirements
  • 1 September 2025: Road and rail filing requirements 

These measures aim to improve risk assessment and streamline customs procedures, and your Customs Clearance Agent UK should follow this on your behalf.

  1. Reclassification of Plant Commodities

As of 30 January 2025, the UK government reclassified seven plant commodity groups, including apples and pears, from medium risk to low risk. This change allows these goods to move freely into Great Britain from the EU, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein without the need for import checks or associated fees.

Your Customs Clearance Agent UK should also give you a practical Steps for Businesses.

  • Obtain a GB EORI Number: Ensure your business has a valid Economic Operators Registration and Identification (EORI) number to facilitate customs declarations. 
  • Coordinate with Carriers and Hauliers: Since carriers are legally responsible for submitting ENS, coordinate with them to ensure timely and accurate declarations. 
  • Update Customs Software: If using customs management software, ensure it is updated to accommodate the new ENS requirements and simplified dataset. 
  • Stay Informed: Regularly check official resources, such as UK, for the latest updates and guidance on customs procedures. 

These changes are part of the UK’s ongoing efforts to enhance border security and streamline customs processes post-Brexit. If you need assistance with specific aspects of the new customs procedures or have further questions, feel free to ask our Customs Clearance Agent UK at Trans Global Logistics UK Limited. We are here to help you!

Trans Global Logistics UK Limited, International Shipping & Logistics Company with 30 years of experience, will be able to offers several services for your Vehicle Transport / Customs Clearance / Import and UK Vehicle Registration to confidently support your shipment in either Import or Export for any type of equipment.

Contact us at Trans Global Logistics UK Limited – customs@tglog.co.uk – phone 07833 410 281 www.tglog.co.uk

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