At Barker & Hood Ltd, we’re always striving to keep our clients informed and prepared for upcoming changes in the logistics and customs landscape. Starting from 31st January 2025, all imports into the UK will require a Safety and Security (S&S) declaration a critical new requirement that could impact your business operations.
What Is a Safety and Security Declaration?
A Safety and Security declaration, also known as an Entry Summary Declaration (ENS), is an additional clearance document that must be raised for all goods entering the UK. Essentially, it is a condensed version of an import clearance, designed to capture key data that UK Customs will use to assess the potential risks of each consignment arriving at the border.
The primary goal of the S&S declaration is to allow UK Border Force to determine whether the goods pose any security or safety risks. Based on this risk assessment, Border Force will decide whether to release the goods immediately upon arrival or whether further checks or inspections are needed.
By flagging high-risk consignments, this process ensures that only safe goods are allowed to enter the country, protecting both national security and public safety.
Key Information Included in a Safety and Security Declaration
The Safety and Security declaration contains important information about the following:
Business details (including sender and receiver)
Goods details (description and classification)
Carrier information (the company transporting the goods, including EORI number and address for non-UK hauliers)
Transport details (type of transport used and journey specifics)
All of this data is used by UK Customs and Border Force to assess the risk level associated with each consignment. It plays a vital role in the smooth movement of goods across borders and in ensuring the safety of the UK’s supply chains.
What Do We Need to Generate an S&S Declaration?
To help us generate an accurate S&S declaration on your behalf, we will need some additional information beyond the standard details required for an import clearance. Specifically, we need:
Routing countries (the countries your goods are passing through)
Carrier details (including the EORI number and address if a non-UK haulier is used)
Truck plate details
Estimated date and time of arrival into the UK
Having this information readily available will ensure that your consignment is processed efficiently and in compliance with the new requirements.
What Happens Once the Declaration Is Submitted?
After the S&S declaration is lodged, the system will generate a Movement Reference Number (MRN), which can be used to generate a Goods Movement Reference (GMR) (though this is not a requirement at present). Your S&S declaration will undergo a risk assessment by Border Force. If no further intervention is required, your goods will be cleared and continue their journey.
How Can Barker & Hood Help?
At Barker & Hood, we’re fully equipped and ready to assist you with the Safety and Security declaration process. With over 45 years of experience in providing reliable, tailored logistics solutions, we understand the importance of seamless customs compliance for your business.
Whether you need assistance with gathering the required information, submitting the declaration, or managing any potential issues that arise during the customs clearance process, our experienced team is here to support you every step of the way.
Why Choose Barker & Hood?
We’ve been trusted by clients large and small for over four decades. Our expertise in UK, European, and global freight means we’re well-positioned to manage all your logistics needs. By handling complex customs procedures like the Safety and Security declaration, we give you peace of mind, allowing you to focus on what matters most—your business and products.
Get in Touch with Us
If you have any questions or need further clarification about the new Safety and Security declaration requirements, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team. We are here to help you navigate these changes smoothly and keep your supply chain running efficiently.
Contact us today at:
Phone: +44 (0) 1376 440 220
Email: customs@barker-hood.co.uk
Further information generated by BIFA / HMRC can be found on the below links:
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