Safety and Security Entry Summary Declarations (ENS)

Everything You Need to Know

From January 31, 2025, it will be mandatory for all goods imported from the EU to Great Britain (GB) to be covered by a Safety and Security (S&S) declaration. The S&S declaration guarantees a proper risk assessment and enhanced border security. Here’s what you need to know:

Goods Travelling by Eurotunnel:

It is the haulage company’s responsibility to lodge the S&S declaration for goods travelling via the Eurotunnel.

How to Submit Your Declarations:

ENS declarations can be submitted yourself or via a third-party service. There are benefits to each option, you should choose the one best suited to your operational needs. If you opt for a third-party service, you still retain responsibility for correctly submitting the declarations.

Submission Time Limits:

For road traffic, particularly via the Channel Tunnel (Le Shuttle Freight), you must submit your ENS declaration at least one hour before arriving at the Eurotunnel terminal in Coquelles, France.

Accuracy and Timeliness:

Compliance will be closely monitored by the UK government (HMG). The accuracy and timeliness of the S&S data are, therefore, of utmost importance. Where there are cases of non-compliance HMG will engage with the haulier or carrier to address any arising issues. Enforcement actions may be taken, including potential delays of goods at the border for further checks or penalties.

Constantine’s Approach

Constantine Ltd will prepare the ENS declaration as a standard procedure for any shipments for which we are completing import clearance. However, we assume that hauliers will be responsible for preparing their GMRs (Goods Movement References) and adding the relevant ENSs, Import Declarations, and Transit documents unless it is agreed Constantine will complete the GMR on their behalf.

Staying informed and compliant with these requirements is essential for smooth and efficient international trade operations. Ensure your processes are aligned with these guidelines to avoid any disruptions.

Find out more about Constantine’s expert customs services.

The information in this blog post is correct at the time of publishing, Thursday 16th January 2025.

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