UK Border Changes Explained: What Importers Need to Know

Why UK Border Changes Matter

Since Brexit, the UK has been rolling out a new, phased border model designed to strengthen security, improve biosecurity, and modernise customs processes. These changes affect every importer, especially those trading with the EU, and they continue to evolve year by year.

Understanding the new requirements is essential to avoid delays, unexpected costs, and compliance issues at the border. This guide explains the key UK border changes in a clear, practical way.

1. Full Customs Controls Are Now in Place

The UK now applies full customs controls to EU imports, meaning:

• Full import declarations are required
• Goods may be held for checks
• Incorrect paperwork can cause delays
• Duty and VAT must be accounted for correctly

The days of “light‑touch” EU imports are over — EU goods are treated the same as non‑EU goods.

2. New SPS (Sanitary & Phytosanitary) Controls

The UK has introduced stricter checks on:

• Animal products
• Plant products
• Foodstuffs
• High‑risk agricultural goods

These may require:

• Export health certificates
• Phytosanitary certificates
• Documentary checks
• Identity checks
• Physical inspections

Importers must ensure suppliers understand these requirements before shipping.

3. Safety & Security (ENS) Declarations for EU Imports

ENS declarations are now required for goods entering the UK from the EU.

This means:

• Carriers must submit pre‑arrival data
• Missing ENS can delay or block entry
• Importers must coordinate with hauliers and freight forwarders

ENS is now a standard part of UK border compliance.

4. The UK’s New Border Target Operating Model (BTOM)

The UK’s Border Target Operating Model introduces:

• Risk‑based checks
• Digital certification
• Streamlined processes for trusted traders
• New inspection points
• Updated SPS categories (low, medium, high risk)

BTOM aims to modernise the border, but it requires importers to adapt their processes.

5. Digitalisation of Border Processes

The UK is moving toward a fully digital border, including:

• Electronic health certificates
• Digital customs documentation
• Automated risk‑based checks
• Integrated supply chain systems

Importers who digitise early will benefit from faster clearance and fewer errors.

6. Changes to Port and Inspection Infrastructure

New border control posts (BCPs) and inland inspection sites have been introduced.

This means:

• Some goods must route through specific ports
• SPS goods may be diverted for inspection
• Hauliers must follow new booking systems
• Port‑specific rules are more important than ever

Understanding your port’s requirements is essential to avoid delays.

7. Increased HMRC and Border Force Enforcement

With full controls in place, enforcement has tightened.

Expect more checks on:

• HS/commodity codes
• Valuation
• Origin claims
• SPS documentation
• Transit (T1) movements
• Duty relief compliance

Importers must ensure their documentation and processes are accurate.

8. New Requirements for Transit (T1) Movements

Goods moving through the EU or UK under transit must follow updated rules:

• T1 must be raised before departure
• Offices of departure/destination must be correct
• Transit must be discharged properly
• Hauliers must understand the process

Incorrect transit handling is now a major cause of border delays.

9. Greater Emphasis on Supplier Compliance

Most border issues originate with suppliers, especially EU suppliers unfamiliar with UK rules.

Common problems include:

• Incorrect invoices
• Missing certificates
• Wrong HS codes
• Incomplete packing lists
• Incorrect origin statements

Importers must provide suppliers with clear instructions and templates.

10. Trusted Trader Schemes and Future Changes

The UK is expanding trusted trader programmes, including:

• Simplified customs processes
• Reduced checks
• Faster clearance
• Priority treatment at the border

More enhancements are expected as the UK moves toward a fully digital border.

How to Prepare for UK Border Changes

To stay compliant and avoid delays:

• Review supplier documentation processes
• Understand SPS and ENS requirements
• Ensure correct HS codes and valuation
• Digitise your customs documentation
• Train staff on new border rules
• Work with a knowledgeable customs agent
• Monitor updates to BTOM and border policy

Proactive preparation is the best defence against border disruption.

How We Help Importers Navigate UK Border Changes

We support businesses with:

• Import declarations (CDS)
• SPS and ENS guidance
• Supplier documentation checks
• Transit (T1) documents
• Duty relief advice
• Port‑specific support
• Compliance reviews
• Ongoing updates on border changes

Our goal is simple: smooth, compliant, cost‑effective importing under the UK’s evolving border model.

Explore More in Our Knowledge Hub

You can also read:

• Post‑Brexit Customs Advice
• Importer Checklists
• How to Speed Up Customs Clearance
• Understanding Duty Relief Schemes
• Customs Glossary

If you want help navigating the UK’s border changes, our customs specialists are ready to support you.

Get in touch for expert border compliance and import guidance.