ENS declarations for the United Kingdom: what will change in 2025?

From January 31, 2025, the United Kingdom will introduce a mandatory Entry Summary Declaration (ENS) requirement for all goods imported from the European Union. This is a key element of new security and safety regulations aimed at strengthening border control post-Brexit.

What is an ENS declaration? 

An ENS declaration is a document containing detailed information about goods being brought into the UK. It helps UK border authorities assess potential risks associated with imported goods. The responsibility for submitting the declaration lies with the carrier or a designated entity acting on their behalf.

Who is required to submit an ENS declaration?

This requirement applies to all modes of transport:
– Maritime transport: The shipping carrier must submit the ENS declaration;
– Air transport: The airline transporting the goods must submit the ENS declaration;
– Rail transport: The rail operator is responsible for submitting the ENS declaration;
– Road transport (RoRo):
-> with driver: The transport company must submit the ENS declaration;
-> without driver: The ferry operator must submit the ENS declaration.

ENS declaration submission deadlines

The deadlines for submitting ENS declarations vary depending on the mode of transport:
a) Maritime transport:
– containerized cargo: at least 24 hours before loading at the port of departure;
– bulk or break-bulk cargo: At least 4 hours before arrival at a UK port.
b) RoRo transport:
– accompanied cargo (with driver): at least 2 hours before arrival at a UK port;
– unaccompanied cargo (without driver): at least 2 hours before arrival at a UK port.

c) Eurotunnel transport: at least 1 hour before arrival at the Eurotunnel terminal.

d) Air transport:
– short-haul flights (less than 4 hours): at the time of actual takeoff;
– long-haul flights: at least 4 hours before arrival in the UK.

e) Rail and inland waterway transport: at least 2 hours before arrival in the UK.

How to Submit an ENS Declaration? 

To submit an ENS declaration, businesses must:

1. Register with the Safety and Security Great Britain (S&S GB) system:
   – have a Government Gateway account. – Obtain a GB EORI number (Economic Operators Registration and Identification).

2. Choose a method of submission:
   – use in-house software compatible with the S&S GB system. – Purchase specialized software from a provider. – Utilize the services of a customs agency or Community System Provider.

Required information for an ENS declaration 

To correctly complete an ENS declaration, the following information is needed:
– Transport documents such as bills of lading, air waybills, and commercial invoices;
– Detailed description of the goods: type, quantity, and packaging method;
 – Sender and recipient details. – Information about the transport method at the border and further transportation route;
– Port of entry location code in the S&S GB system.

Exceptions to the ENS declaration requirement

Some goods are exempt from the ENS declaration requirement, including:
– Electricity;
– Goods transported via pipeline;
– Letters, postcards, and printed materials;
– Goods in personal luggage;
– Goods declared verbally at customs.

Preparing for the new requirements 

Businesses are encouraged to prepare in advance for the new requirements by: – Discussing responsibility for submitting declarations with supply chain partners. – Choosing the most convenient submission method—considering customs agencies or software providers experienced in handling such documentation. – Testing systems and procedures—companies can start voluntarily submitting ENS declarations now to ensure their processes function smoothly before the requirement becomes mandatory.

The introduction of ENS declaration requirements from January 31, 2025, marks a significant change for businesses importing goods into the UK. It is crucial to prepare for these new regulations by leveraging expert logistics and customs clearance support. PKS International CARGO S.A. offers comprehensive assistance in this process, ensuring safe and efficient transport of goods to the UK.

Contact us to learn more about our services and get your business ready for the upcoming changes. Let’s work together to keep your supply chain running smoothly!