Suppose your business imports goods from the EU into the UK. In that case, you’re likely already familiar with the complexities of customs processes. However, from January 31, 2025, please be aware that new EU-to-GB Safety & Security requirements will come into effect, introducing Entry Summary Declarations (ENS).
Understanding and preparing for these changes is vital to ensuring seamless supply chain operations. This is particularly true for transport operators, as the ‘owners of the active means of transport‘ are legally responsible for making declarations. For goods arriving in the UK by roll-on roll-off ferry, either the haulier or the ferry operator is responsible, depending on whether the load is accompanied by a driver or unaccompanied goods.
At AMCO, we pride ourselves on decades of logistics and customs compliance expertise, supported by a knowledgeable team dedicated to helping businesses ensure they are prepared to navigate regulatory changes. This guide breaks down the new ENS rules, addresses common questions, and provides actionable steps to ensure your business is ready.
WHAT ARE THE 2025 ENS IMPORT RULES?
The Entry Summary Declaration (ENS) is a legal requirement for importing goods into Great Britain. It involves submitting advance Information about the goods transported to HMRC before arriving in the UK. Starting January 31, 2025, these declarations will apply to imports from the EU, aligning them with goods from the rest of the world.
The ENS aims to enhance safety and security by allowing authorities to assess shipment risks before entering UK territory.
This change reflects the UK’s commitment to protecting its borders while maintaining efficient trade flows.
WHAT INFORMATION DOES AN ENS REQUIRE?
To complete an ENS, businesses must provide detailed shipment data, including:
> CONSIGNOR AND CONSIGNEE DETAILS: Information about the sender and recipient, including the goods loading location.
> GOODS DESCRIPTION AND/OR COMMODITY CODES: A clear outline of the transported items.
> MODE OF TRANSPORT AND CARRIER INFORMATION: Details of the vehicle, accompanied trailer and ferry carrying the goods.
> ROUTE AND POINT OF ENTRY INTO THE UK: Information about the journey, including the expected arrival date/time in the UK.
There are 20 mandatory information fields, 8 conditional fields (mandatory under certain conditions), and 9 optional fields.
At AMCO, we recommend working closely with your customs agents or logistics providers to ensure accuracy and completeness in these submissions.
THE IMPORTANCE OF EORI NUMBERS
Businesses planning to submit ENS entries need a GB Economic Operators Registration and Identification (EORI) number. This unique identifier allows HMRC to track and process customs declarations, including ENS submissions.
Without a GB EORI number, your goods cannot be cleared for import, leading to potential delays and additional costs. AMCO can assist you in verifying or obtaining your GB EORI number to ensure your business is fully compliant.
HOW WILL THE ENS RULES IMPACT YOUR BUSINESS?
The introduction of ENS for EU imports may add administrative steps for those responsible for managing the active means of transport, e.g. transport companies, hauliers, freight forwarders, etc.
For those businesses which rely on logistics services from the EU, such as Importers, while they may not be directly responsible, we recommend checking that your transport suppliers are fully prepared for the changes. Businesses can manage these changes efficiently with proper preparation.
Here are some potential impacts:
> INCREASED DOCUMENTATION REQUIREMENTS: Businesses must gather and submit more detailed Information.
> POTENTIAL DELAYS FOR NON-COMPLIANCE: Incorrect or incomplete declarations could result in shipment delays or penalties.
> GREATER EMPHASIS ON DIGITAL SYSTEMS: Adopting robust customs management software will become increasingly important.
AMCO’s customs team is equipped with the latest technology and in-depth knowledge to handle these requirements seamlessly, minimising disruptions to your supply chain.
COMMON QUESTIONS ABOUT THE ENS IMPORT RULES
1. WHEN SHOULD AN ENS BE SUBMITTED? For RoRo-accompanied freight (the most common method of entry to the UK from the EU), submit ENS at least two hours before goods transported by road arrive at the UK border. The timeframes for sea and air freight depend on the mode and distance of travel.
2. WHO IS RESPONSIBLE FOR SUBMITTING THE ENS? The operator of the active means of transport, such as the haulier, carrier, or freight forwarder, is responsible. However, businesses must provide the correct information to the responsible party.
3. ARE THERE ANY EXEMPTIONS? Specific categories of goods, such as those in transit or personal belongings, may be exempt from ENS requirements. For a comprehensive list of exemptions, consult HMRC’s official guidance.
4. HOW CAN I AVOID DELAYS AND PENALTIES? Partnering with experienced customs specialists like AMCO significantly reduces the risk of errors. Our team ensures compliance by meeting regulatory standards and submitting all declarations on time.
STEPS TO ENABLE AMCO TO HANDLE ENS REQUIREMENTS ON YOUR BEHALF
AMCO can manage ENS submissions on your behalf. Here are the steps to get started:
1. SIMPLIFY THE PROCESS AND AVOID UNNECESSARY COMPLICATIONS: Contact our friendly team of customs experts at customs@amco-group.co.uk to discuss your requirements.
2. AUTHORISE AMCO AS YOUR CUSTOMS REPRESENTATIVE: Sign a formal authorisation allowing AMCO to act on your behalf for ENS declarations.
3. AGREE WITH HOW YOU WILL SHARE SHIPMENT DATA: Supply detailed Information about consignors, consignees, goods, and transport. If AMCO is already clearing goods for the Importer, we will already hold relevant information, such as commodity codes and descriptions of the goods; therefore, we need a few additional details.
4. MAINTAIN OPEN COMMUNICATION: Keep us informed about shipment changes to ensure accurate and timely submissions.
By taking these steps, you can rely on AMCO’s expertise to handle the complexities of ENS compliance, freeing up your resources for other business priorities.
HOW AMCO CAN HELP
AMCO’s long-standing reputation for logistics and customs clearance services is uniquely positioned to support businesses through these regulatory changes. Our experienced team offers:
> Comprehensive customs consultancy.
> Real-time tracking and reporting systems.
> Dedicated support to ensure compliance with ENS requirements.
We understand the challenges businesses face when adapting to new regulations. By entrusting your ENS submissions to AMCO, you can focus on growing your business while we handle the complexities of customs compliance.
CONCLUSION
The 2025 ENS import rules significantly change how businesses import goods from the EU to the UK. However, you can comply without disrupting your operations with proper preparation and support.
At AMCO, we’re committed to guiding our customers through every step of the process, ensuring a smooth transition to the new requirements. Contact our team today for more information or to discuss your specific needs.
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By partnering with AMCO, you can leverage our expertise to streamline your supply chain operations, boost efficiency, and gain a competitive edge.
Contact AMCO today. Together, we’ll keep your business running smoothly!